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Updated: Sep 22, 2025
In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: October 21, 2022
The Functions and Mechanisms of Translatable Circular RNAs
Chang Liu1, Xinying Wu1, Priyanka Gokulnath1
1Institute of Geriatrics (Shanghai University), Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Nantong, China (C.L., X.W., J.X.); Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Laboratory, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China (C.L., X.W., J.X.); and Cardiovascular Division of the Massachusetts General Hospitaland Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (P.G., G.L.).
Abstract:
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are covalently closed RNA produced by back-splicing. CircRNAs have been considered as a type of noncoding RNAs for a long time. However, recent studies have shown that circRNAs can be translated into functional proteins. Proteins specifically encoded by circRNAs have been proved to play important roles in cancer pathology. In this review, we introduce the methods commonly used to identify and validate circRNA translation in detail. We also describe the major mechanisms driving the translation of these circRNAs. In addition, we summarize the main functions of the circRNA-encoded proteins in both physiologic and pathologic conditions. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic potential and challenges in the usage of synthetic translatable circRNAs. This brief review highlights recent discoveries made in this field and the progress of therapy based on translatable circRNAs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Understanding the translation of circRNA could facilitate the identification of novel drug targets in various diseases. Moreover, some circRNA encoded proteins were demonstrated to have therapeutic functions in cancer. The application of synthetic circRNAs as carriers to achieve stable protein expression in vitro and in vivo has tremendous therapeutic potential.
Insights
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) can be translated into proteins, offering new therapeutic targets for diseases like cancer. This review details methods for identifying circRNA translation and discusses their functional roles and therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) were long considered noncoding.
- Emerging evidence shows circRNAs can encode functional proteins.
- These proteins play significant roles in cancer development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for identifying and validating circRNA translation.
- To describe mechanisms driving circRNA translation.
- To summarize functions of circRNA-encoded proteins and discuss therapeutic applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on circRNA identification and validation.
- Analysis of mechanisms regulating circRNA translation.
- Summary of functional roles and therapeutic potential of circRNA-encoded proteins.
Main Results:
- Detailed methods for circRNA translation identification and validation are presented.
- Key mechanisms governing circRNA translation are described.
- Functions of circRNA-encoded proteins in health and disease are summarized.
Conclusions:
- Understanding circRNA translation aids in discovering novel drug targets.
- CircRNA-encoded proteins show therapeutic promise, particularly in cancer.
- Synthetic translatable circRNAs offer significant potential for stable protein expression and therapy.
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