The dynamic interplay between viruses and host non-coding RNA species

Previously understudied for their lack of protein-coding capacity and assumed functional irrelevance, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators of biological pathways. Technological advancements, including optimized RNA sequencing methods have begun unearthing the extent of ncRNA contributions to cellular processes; however, many ncRNAs remain partially characterized. Nevertheless, ncRNAs have cemented their role as crucial regulators of gene expression, reinforced by ncRNA dysregulation being implicated in the development and progression of a wide range of human diseases. Viruses have evolved intricate mechanisms to override host immune strategies and propagate viral replication. Many of these involve manipulating host ncRNA networks or encoding viral ncRNA species to fine-tune the cellular milieu into one most permissive for viral biology. Yet, due to their regulatory potential, ncRNAs are also integral to cellular immune strategies and defence mechanisms, such that ncRNAs remain one of the main tools hosts use to subdue viral infections. Herein we describe the complex and dynamic interplay between viruses and host non-coding regulatory RNA species. We characterize the various classes of ncRNAs in comprehensive detail and explore their respective contributions to viral biology. We then discuss the therapeutic potential of ncRNAs, and their putative roles as specific biomarkers.