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Nanotherapeutic approaches for delivery of long non-coding RNAs: an updated review with emphasis on cancer
Fatemeh Davodabadi1, Shekoufeh Mirinejad2, Sumira Malik3
1Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran. davodabadii.fateme@gmail.com.
Abstract:
The long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) comprise a wide range of RNA species whose length exceeds 200 nucleotides, which regulate the expression of genes and cellular functions in a wide range of organisms. Several diseases, including malignancy, have been associated with lncRNA dysregulation. Due to their functions in cancer development and progression, lncRNAs have emerged as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Several studies have investigated the anti-cancer properties of lncRNAs; however, only a few lncRNAs have been found to exhibit tumor suppressor properties. Furthermore, their length and poor stability make them difficult to synthesize. Thus, to overcome the instability of lncRNAs, poor specificity, and their off-target effects, researchers have constructed nanocarriers that encapsulate lncRNAs. Recently, translational medicine research has focused on delivering lncRNAs into tumor cells, including cancer cells, through nano-drug delivery systems in vivo. The developed nanocarriers can protect, target, and release lncRNAs under controlled conditions without appreciable adverse effects. To deliver lncRNAs to cancer cells, various nanocarriers, such as exosomes, microbubbles, polymer nanoparticles, 1,2-dioleyl-3-trimethylammoniumpropane chloride nanocarriers, and virus-like particles, have been successfully developed. Despite this, every nanocarrier has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to delivering nucleic acids effectively and safely. This article examines the current status of nanocarriers for lncRNA delivery in cancer therapy, focusing on their potential to enhance cancer treatment.
Insights
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) show promise in cancer therapy but face delivery challenges. Nanocarriers are being developed to effectively deliver these therapeutic RNAs into cancer cells for improved treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and cellular functions.
- Dysregulation of lncRNAs is implicated in various diseases, particularly cancer.
- While some lncRNAs exhibit tumor suppressor properties, their therapeutic application is limited by instability and synthesis issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current advancements in nanocarrier-mediated delivery of lncRNAs for cancer therapy.
- To highlight the potential of nanocarriers in overcoming the challenges associated with lncRNA stability and specificity.
- To explore the role of lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on nanocarrier systems for lncRNA delivery.
- Analysis of various nanocarrier types, including exosomes, microbubbles, polymer nanoparticles, and virus-like particles.
- Discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of different nanocarrier platforms for nucleic acid delivery.
Main Results:
- Nanocarriers can protect lncRNAs from degradation, enhance targeting to tumor cells, and enable controlled release.
- Various nanocarrier systems have been successfully developed for *in vivo* lncRNA delivery.
- Different nanocarriers present unique benefits and drawbacks for effective and safe nucleic acid delivery.
Conclusions:
- Nanocarrier-based delivery systems offer a promising strategy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of lncRNAs in cancer.
- Further research into optimizing nanocarrier design is crucial for safe and effective lncRNA cancer therapy.
- lncRNAs delivered via nanocarriers hold significant potential for improving cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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