Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
10:27
In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: October 21, 2022
Circular RNAs in Intestinal Mucosal Homeostasis and Pathologies
Hee Kyoung Chung1, Lan Xiao1,2, Jian-Ying Wang1,2,3
1Cell Biology Group, Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
Non-Coding RNA
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are key regulators of intestinal epithelial homeostasis and gut diseases. This review highlights their roles and potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Molecular Biology
- RNA Biology
Background:
- The intestinal epithelium is a rapidly self-renewing tissue crucial for host-environment interaction.
- Maintaining intestinal homeostasis involves coordinated cellular processes like proliferation, migration, and differentiation.
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are emerging as vital regulators in intestinal epithelial biology and pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathobiological functions and regulatory mechanisms of intestinal epithelium-enriched circRNAs.
- To highlight specific circRNAs like circHIPK3, Cdr1as, and circPABPN1.
- To discuss the clinical potential of circRNAs in gut diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on circRNAs in intestinal epithelium.
- Analysis of circRNA mechanisms, including interactions with microRNAs and RNA-binding proteins.
- Focus on specific circRNAs implicated in gut homeostasis and disease.
Main Results:
- CircRNAs are stable regulatory molecules involved in intestinal mucosa growth, regeneration, and barrier function.
- Dysregulated circRNAs are linked to inflammatory bowel disease and malignancies.
- Specific circRNAs (circHIPK3, Cdr1as, circPABPN1) play significant roles in intestinal epithelium.
Conclusions:
- CircRNAs are critical players in intestinal epithelial homeostasis and disease pathogenesis.
- CircRNAs hold promise as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for gastrointestinal disorders.
- Further research into circRNA mechanisms can advance clinical applications in gut health.
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