Long non-coding RNAs regulate the hallmarks of cancer in HPV-induced malignancies

High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most frequent sexually transmitted agent worldwide and is responsible for approximately 5% of human cancers. Identifying novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for these malignancies requires a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in the progression of HPV-induced cancers. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial in the regulation of biological processes. Importantly, these molecules are key players in the progression of multiple malignancies and are able to regulate the development of the different hallmarks of cancer. This review highlights the action of lncRNAs in the regulation of cellular processes leading to the typical hallmarks of cancer. The regulation of lncRNAs by HPV oncogenes, their targets and also their mechanisms of action are also discussed, in the context of HPV-induced malignancies. Overall, accumulating data indicates that lncRNAs may have a significant potential to become useful tools for clinical practice as disease biomarkers or therapy targets.