Long Intergenic Noncoding RNAs Affect Biological Pathways Underlying Autoimmune and Neurodegenerative Disorders

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Immunology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs) are transcripts >200 nucleotides with diverse regulatory roles.
• Dysregulation of lincRNAs impacts cellular homeostasis, differentiation, development, and immune/nervous system function.
• Emerging evidence links lincRNAs to various disease pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular functions and pathogenic roles of lincRNAs in specific autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.
• To explore the potential of lincRNAs as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating lincRNA involvement in disease pathogenesis.
• Analysis of proposed molecular mechanisms and functions of lincRNAs in selected disorders.

Main Results:

• LincRNAs play multifaceted roles in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
• Specific lincRNAs are implicated in the progression and severity of these conditions.

Conclusions:

• LincRNAs are critical players in autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.
• LincRNAs represent promising biomarkers for disease prediction and monitoring.
• Targeting lincRNAs offers potential novel therapeutic strategies for these debilitating conditions.