The Role of lncRNAs in the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Cervical Cancer: A Narrative Review

In this context, the aim of this study was to compile the main works that address the relationship between lncRNAs and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in cervical cancer.

Data extraction was conducted using the PubMed database, where a search for selected studies on lncRNAs involved in EMT in cervical cancer was performed. The search was based on the following keywords: "Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition" AND "Uterine Cervical Neoplasms" and "lncRNA and EMT and cervical cancer."

Included in this study were 16 lncRNAs, which encompass expression level, microRNAs, targets, clinical significance, and references. Among the 16 lncRNAs observed, it was found that 5 of them can regulate EMT by modulating microRNAs. It was also noted that these biomolecules are capable of regulating the expression of important EMT genes, such as SNAIL, SLUG, and TWIST, thus influencing cancer invasion and metastasis. In addition to these, 11 lncRNAs were found, which can regulate biological pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin and AKT/mTOR, playing fundamental roles in EMT. In conclusion, the future prospects of lncRNAs in therapy and inhibition of EMT are promising.

Considering the relevance of EMT to cancer progression and the involvement of lncRNAs in this biological process, it becomes important to better understand their role and the possibility of targeting them therapeutically, which can represent significant advancements in the treatment not only of cancer but also of other diseases.