Long non-coding RNAs in virus-related cancers

Yushan Huang1, Longchang Jiang2,3, Yang Liu4

  • 1School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.

Insights

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a role in virus-related cancers by regulating gene expression and other cellular processes. This review explores their mechanisms in cancers caused by Hepatitis B virus, Epstein-Barr virus, and Human Papillomavirus, including potential roles in COVID-19.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Viral infections are a known cause of cancer through various molecular pathways.
  • Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in biological functions and disease.
  • lncRNAs can influence gene expression, protein modification, and interactions with nucleic acids and proteins.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the dysregulation and mechanisms of lncRNAs in virus-associated cancers.
  • To focus on cancers linked to Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
  • To discuss the potential involvement of lncRNAs in COVID-19 pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
  • Analysis of lncRNA functions in viral oncogenesis.
  • Exploration of lncRNA roles in specific virus-related cancers (HBV, EBV, HPV) and COVID-19.

Main Results:

  • lncRNAs are dysregulated in virus-related cancers.
  • Mechanisms include gene alternation, transcriptional regulation, protein modification, and microRNA sponging.
  • lncRNAs show potential implications in HBV, EBV, HPV-associated cancers, and COVID-19.

Conclusions:

  • lncRNAs are critical regulators in the development of virus-related cancers.
  • Understanding lncRNA mechanisms offers potential therapeutic targets.
  • Further research into lncRNAs in viral oncogenesis and COVID-19 is warranted.

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