The relationship between long non-coding RNAs and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's...

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) cannot be coded to proteins; however, they can display important functions in several aspects of cell biology. Their abnormal expression is verified in various disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease (AD). By acting as a cell cycle suppressor or promotor, lncRNAs mediate some signaling pathways, which in turn lead to exacerbation or improvement of AD. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, as an important pathway in the pathogenesis of AD, can extremely be affected by lncRNAs. This pathway participates in various biological processes, such as embryogenesis and tissue homeostasis, and is involved in expanding the central nervous system, such as synaptogenesis, plasticity, and hippocampal neurogenesis. lncRNAs can regulate the expression of Wnt pathway target genes by interacting with various components of this pathway. This article discusses lncRNAs and their associated mechanisms in the alteration of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which can be regarded as a new aspect of diagnosing and treating AD.