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The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in ALS
Alessandra Falduti1,2, Adele Giovinazzo2, Elisa Lo Feudo1,2
1Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Campus S. Venuta, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
Genes
|June 26, 2025
Summary
Non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are implicated in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) pathogenesis. Their dysregulation offers potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for ALS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons, leading to paralysis and death.
- While genetic and environmental factors contribute, the exact cause of ALS onset remains unknown.
- Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their role in disease pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dysregulation of non-coding RNAs in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
- To highlight the potential of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for ALS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on the role of non-coding RNAs in ALS.
- Analysis of emerging evidence on the involvement of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs in ALS pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Abnormal expression of non-coding RNAs is linked to key ALS processes like motor neuron survival, protein aggregation, and inflammation.
- Dysregulated non-coding RNAs are implicated in both sporadic and familial forms of ALS.
Conclusions:
- Non-coding RNAs play significant roles in the pathogenic mechanisms of ALS.
- miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs represent promising avenues for ALS biomarker development and therapeutic strategies.
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