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Natural antisense transcripts in the biological hallmarks of cancer: powerful regulators hidden in the dark

Shanshan Zhao1, Xue Zhang2, Shuo Chen3

  • 1Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Reproductive Medicine Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Shengjing Hospital Affiliated to China Medical University, 110022, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.

Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research : CR
|September 15, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Natural antisense transcripts (NATs) regulate gene expression and are implicated in cancer. This review highlights NATs' mechanisms in cancer biology and their therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Natural antisense transcripts (NATs) are RNA molecules transcribed from the opposite DNA strand, overlapping with sense transcripts.
  • NATs influence gene expression at multiple levels, including epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-translational modifications.
  • Dysregulation of NATs is observed in various cancers, suggesting their role in tumorigenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize current knowledge on NATs in cancer biology.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms by which NATs regulate cancer hallmarks.
  • To discuss the therapeutic potential of NATs in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing studies on NATs in cancer.
  • Analysis of NATs' roles in epigenetic regulation, gene expression, and protein modification.
  • Exploration of NATs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Main Results:

  • NATs play crucial roles in regulating key cancer pathways and hallmarks.
  • Specific NATs have been identified as potential oncogenes or tumor suppressors.
  • NATs offer novel avenues for targeted cancer therapies.

Conclusions:

  • NATs are pivotal regulators in cancer development and progression.
  • Targeting NATs presents a promising strategy for future cancer therapies.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand and exploit NATs' therapeutic potential.
Keywords:
CancerHallmarks of cancerNATsNatural antisense transcripts

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