Long non-coding RNAs in systemic lupus erythematosus: New insights into disease pathogenesis and diagnosis

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a remarkable heterogeneous autoimmune disease that is sometimes hard to diagnose at the early stage and can lead to premature mortality. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non-protein-coding RNAs greater than 200 nucleotides in length that can regulate gene expression in various human diseases, including SLE. Peripheral blood samples and renal tissue samples from SLE patients were used for study. Abnormally expressed lncRNAs in SLE have been shown to influence several signalling pathways, including the IFN-I, MAPK and WNT pathways. This can affect cellular phenotypes like cell activation, differentiation skewing, cytokine production and cell apoptosis. Many of the reported lncRNAs may be useful for diagnosing, evaluating progression and predicting potential organ damage in SLE patients. While numerous lncRNAs play important roles in SLE, more basic and clinical studies are warranted to clarify the function of these regulatory molecules and determine their diagnostic value.