Long noncoding RNAs: emerging roles in pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex and progressive disease characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary artery pressure, leading to pulmonary vascular remodeling, right heart failure, and ultimately death. Although several molecular pathways related to vascular remodeling have been reported, the mechanism behind this fatal disease with poor prognosis remains largely unclear. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proven to be playing crucial roles in various biological processes, and emerging studies demonstrated lncRNAs as essential epigenetic modifiers involved in the onset and development of PH. The present review summarizes the types and biogenesis of lncRNAs, focuses on the biological function of lncRNAs in vascular diseases, and highlights all proven lncRNAs as well as highly potential lncRNA candidates involved in PH. Moreover, the interaction between lncRNA and corresponding miRNA in PH is also emphasized. Finally, we discuss current challenges and future prospects of lncRNAs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for PH. Current data indicate lncRNAs are vital regulators of PH and may act as promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets for PH.