Long non-coding RNAs and survival outcomes in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a highly heterogeneous hematological malignancy characterized by pronounced differences in clinical course and genetic background. While research has historically focused on alterations in protein-coding genes, it is increasingly evident that the non-coding transcriptome plays a pivotal role in CLL pathogenesis and progression. This review explores the emerging field of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in CLL, and their association with survival outcomes. We discuss how these pleiotropic transcripts act as master regulators of gene expression, orchestrating key cancer-related cellular processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis and communication with the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, we examine how the aberrant expression of specific lncRNAs correlates with the established clinical and biological prognostic markers, response to treatment and survival of patients. By summarizing current findings, this review evaluates the potential of these regulatory transcripts as prognostic and/or predictive markers, as well as their prospects as innovative therapeutic targets. Understanding the mechanisms of action and functional roles of lncRNAs in pathobiology of CLL cells may contribute to refining risk stratification and developing personalized management strategies for patients with this complex leukemia.