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Published on: May 30, 2025
Tumor suppressor and oncogenic role of long non-coding RNAs in cancer
Esra Guzel1, Tugba Muhlise Okyay2, Burhanettin Yalcinkaya3
1Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Health Sciences University, Hamidiye Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey.
Abstract:
Non-coding RNAs are RNA molecules that are not translated into the protein, making up the vast majority of the human genome. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) are in the RNA group that has longer than 200 nucleotides, and non-protein coding transcripts. In recent years, the potential has attracted considerable attention as new important biological regulators. LncRNAs play a critical role in regulating the activity and localization of proteins, processing the production of small RNAs, and processing other RNAs. They are also involved in cell differentiation, cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion by modulation of gene expression. Abnormal expression of LncRNAs has an important role in the function of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Recently, there has been an increasing number of studies on the tumorigenic effects of specific lncRNAs in the initiation and progression of cancer. In this review, general information about lncRNAs is provided, including the biological importance of lncRNAs in cancer diseases and their potential development in therapeutic applications.
Insights
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial regulators in biological processes and gene expression. Their abnormal expression is linked to cancer, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Non-coding RNAs constitute the majority of the human genome and are not translated into proteins.
- Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides, have emerged as significant biological regulators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of lncRNAs, focusing on their biological significance in cancer.
- To explore the potential therapeutic applications of lncRNAs in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature on lncRNAs and their roles in biological processes.
- Analysis of studies investigating the involvement of lncRNAs in cancer initiation and progression.
Main Results:
- LncRNAs regulate protein activity, RNA processing, and gene expression, influencing cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis.
- Aberrant lncRNA expression is implicated in the function of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes.
- Numerous studies demonstrate the tumorigenic effects of specific lncRNAs in cancer development.
Conclusions:
- LncRNAs play a critical role in the pathogenesis of various cancers.
- Understanding lncRNA functions offers promising avenues for novel cancer therapeutic strategies.
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