[Non-coding Natural Antisense RNA: Mechanisms of Action in the Regulation of Target Gene Expression and Its Clinical Implications]

The emerging role of circular RNAs in cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer: From molecular mechanism to future potential

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most common cause of death in female cancers. The prognosis of OC is very poor due to delayed diagnosis and identification of most patients in advanced stages, metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to chemotherapy. As chemotherapy with platinum-based drugs such as cisplatin (DDP) is the main treatment in most OC cases, resistance to DDP is an important obstacle to achieving satisfactory therapeutic efficacy. Consequently, knowing the different molecular mechanisms involved in resistance to DDP is necessary to achieve new therapeutic approaches. According to numerous recent studies, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) could regulate proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and chemoresistance in many cancers, including OC. Most of these ncRNAs are released by tumor cells into human fluid, allowing them to be used as tools for diagnosis. CircRNAs are ncRNA family members that have a role in the initiation, progression, and chemoresistance regulation of various cancers. In the current study, we investigated the roles of several circRNAs and their signaling pathways on OC progression and also on DDP resistance during chemotherapy.

Role of Non-coding RNAs in the Response of Glioblastoma to Temozolomide

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are widely used in clinical practice across the globe as cancer treatments. Intrinsic or acquired chemoresistance poses a significant problem for medical practitioners and researchers, causing tumor recurrence and metastasis. The most dangerous kind of malignant brain tumor is called glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) that often recurs following surgery. The most often used medication for treating GBM is temozolomide chemotherapy; however, most patients eventually become resistant. Researchers are studying preclinical models that accurately reflect human disease and can be used to speed up drug development to overcome chemoresistance in GBM. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been shown to be substantial in regulating tumor development and facilitating treatment resistance in several cancers, such as GBM. In this work, we mentioned the mechanisms of how different ncRNAs (microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs) can regulate temozolomide chemosensitivity in GBM. We also address the role of these ncRNAs encapsulated inside secreted exosomes.

Advances of the MAPK pathway in the treatment of spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a complex pathology within the central nervous system (CNS), leading to severe sensory and motor impairments. It activates various signaling pathways, notably the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Present treatment approaches primarily focus on symptomatic relief, lacking efficacy in addressing the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Emerging research underscores the significance of the MAPK pathway in neuronal differentiation, growth, survival, axonal regeneration, and inflammatory responses post-SCI. Modulating this pathway post-injury has shown promise in attenuating inflammation, minimizing apoptosis, alleviating neuropathic pain, and fostering neural regeneration. Given its pivotal role, the MAPK pathway emerges as a potential therapeutic target in SCI management. This review synthesizes current knowledge on SCI pathology, delineates the MAPK pathway's characteristics, and explores its dual roles in SCI pathology and therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, it addresses the existing challenges in MAPK research in the context of SCI, proposing solutions to overcome these hurdles. Our aim is to offer a comprehensive reference for future research on the MAPK pathway and SCI, laying the groundwork for targeted therapeutic strategies.

Non-coding RNAs in leukemia drug resistance: new perspectives on molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways

Like almost all cancer types, timely diagnosis is needed for leukemias to be effectively cured. Drug efflux, attenuated drug uptake, altered drug metabolism, and epigenetic alterations are just several of the key mechanisms by which drug resistance develops. All of these mechanisms are orchestrated by up- and downregulators, in which non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) do not encode specific proteins in most cases; albeit, some of them have been found to exhibit the potential for protein-coding. Notwithstanding, ncRNAs are chiefly known for their contribution to the regulation of physiological processes, as well as the pathological ones, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immune responses. Specifically, in the case of leukemia chemo-resistance, ncRNAs have been recognized to be responsible for modulating the initiation and progression of drug resistance. Herein, we comprehensively reviewed the role of ncRNAs, specifically its effect on molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways, in the development of leukemia drug resistance.

miR-306-5p is involved in chitin metabolism in Aedes albopictus pupae via linc8338-miR-306-5p-XM_019678125.2 axis

Aedes albopictus can transmit several lethal arboviruses. This mosquito has become a sever public health threat due to its rapidly changing global distribution. Chitin, which is the major component of the cuticle and peritrophic membrane (PM), is crucial for the growth and development of insect. microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the posttranscriptional level regulation of gene expression, thereby influencing many biological processes in insects. In this study, an attempt was made to evaluate the role of miR-306-5p in regulating chitin metabolism in Ae. albopictus pupae. Overexpression of miR-306-5p resulted in a significantly reduced survival rate in pupae and an increased malformation rate in adults. Both in vivo and in vitro evidence confirmed the presence of the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory axis (linc8338-miR-306-5p-XM_019678125.2). RNAi of linc8338 and XM_019678125.2 had effects on pupae similar to those of miR-306-5p. The highest expression level of miR-306-5p was found in the midgut, and alteration in the expression of miR-306-5p, XM_019678125.2 and linc8338 induced increased transcript levels of chitin synthase 2 (AaCHS2) and decreased chitinase 10 (AaCht10); as well as increased thickness of the midgut and enlarged midgut epithelial cells. The results of this study highlight the potential of miR-306-5p as a prospective target in mosquito control and confirm that the ceRNA mechanism is involved in chitin metabolism. These findings will provide a basis for further studies to uncover the molecular mechanisms through which ncRNAs regulate chitin metabolism.

Exploring Epigenetic Modifications as Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Glaucoma

Glaucoma, a complex and multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder, is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Despite significant advancements in our understanding of its pathogenesis and management, early diagnosis and effective treatment of glaucoma remain major clinical challenges. Epigenetic modifications, encompassing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, have emerged as critical regulators of gene expression and cellular processes. The aim of this comprehensive review focuses on the emerging field of epigenetics and its role in understanding the complex genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying glaucoma. The review will provide an overview of the pathophysiology of glaucoma, emphasizing the intricacies of intraocular pressure regulation, retinal ganglion cell dysfunction, and optic nerve damage. It explores how epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, can influence gene expression, and how these mechanisms are implicated in glaucomatous neurodegeneration and contribute to glaucoma pathogenesis. The manuscript discusses evidence from both animal models and human studies, providing insights into the epigenetic alterations associated with glaucoma onset and progression. Additionally, it discusses the potential of using epigenetic modifications as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for more personalized and targeted glaucoma treatment.

Frontiers and Challenges of Computing ncRNAs Biogenesis, Function and Modulation

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), generated from nonprotein coding DNA sequences, constitute 98-99% of the human genome. Non-coding RNAs encompass diverse functional classes, including microRNAs, small interfering RNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, small nuclear RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs. With critical involvement in gene expression and regulation across various biological and physiopathological contexts, such as neuronal disorders, immune responses, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, non-coding RNAs are emerging as disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets. In this review, after providing an overview of non-coding RNAs' role in cell homeostasis, we illustrate the potential and the challenges of state-of-the-art computational methods exploited to study non-coding RNAs biogenesis, function, and modulation. This can be done by directly targeting them with small molecules or by altering their expression by targeting the cellular engines underlying their biosynthesis. Drawing from applications, also taken from our work, we showcase the significance and role of computer simulations in uncovering fundamental facets of ncRNA mechanisms and modulation. This information may set the basis to advance gene modulation tools and therapeutic strategies to address unmet medical needs.

Beyond genetics: Exploring the role of epigenetic alterations in breast cancer

Breast cancer remains a major global health challenge. Its rising incidence is attributed to factors such as delayed diagnosis, the complexity of its subtypes, and increasing drug resistance, all contributing to less-than-ideal patient outcomes. Central to the progression of breast cancer are epigenetic aberrations, which significantly contribute to drug resistance and the emergence of cancer stem cell traits. These include alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the expression of non-coding RNAs. Understanding these epigenetic changes is crucial for developing advanced breast cancer management strategies despite their complexity. Investigating these epigenetic modifications offers the potential for novel diagnostic markers, more accurate prognostic indicators, and the identification of reliable predictors of treatment response. This could lead to the development of new targeted therapies. However, this requires sustained, focused research efforts to navigate the challenges of understanding breast cancer carcinogenesis and its epigenetic underpinnings. A deeper understanding of epigenetic mechanisms in breast cancer can revolutionize personalized medicine. This could lead to significant improvements in patient care, including early detection, precise disease stratification, and more effective treatment options.

Circulating miRNAs and Preeclampsia: From Implantation to Epigenetics

In this review, we comprehensively present the literature on circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with preeclampsia, a pregnancy-specific disease considered the primary reason for maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. miRNAs are single-stranded non-coding RNAs, 20-24 nt long, which control mRNA expression. Changes in miRNA expression can induce a variation in the relative mRNA level and influence cellular homeostasis, and the strong presence of miRNAs in all body fluids has made them useful biomarkers of several diseases. Preeclampsia is a multifactorial disease, but the etiopathogenesis remains unclear. The functions of trophoblasts, including differentiation, proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis, are essential for a successful pregnancy. During the early stages of placental development, trophoblasts are strictly regulated by several molecular pathways; however, an imbalance in these molecular pathways can lead to severe placental lesions and pregnancy complications. We then discuss the role of miRNAs in trophoblast invasion and in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and prediction of preeclampsia. We also discuss the potential role of miRNAs from an epigenetic perspective with possible future therapeutic implications.

NcRNA: key and potential in hearing loss

Hearing loss has an extremely high prevalence worldwide and brings incredible economic and social burdens. Mechanisms such as epigenetics are profoundly involved in the initiation and progression of hearing loss and potentially yield definite strategies for hearing loss treatment. Non-coding genes occupy 97% of the human genome, and their transcripts, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), are widely participated in regulating various physiological and pathological situations. NcRNAs, mainly including micro-RNAs (miRNAs), long-stranded non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are involved in the regulation of cell metabolism and cell death by modulating gene expression and protein-protein interactions, thus impacting the occurrence and prognosis of hearing loss. This review provides a detailed overview of ncRNAs, especially miRNAs and lncRNAs, in the pathogenesis of hearing loss. We also discuss the shortcomings and issues that need to be addressed in the study of hearing loss ncRNAs in the hope of providing viable therapeutic strategies for the precise treatment of hearing loss.

Potential applications of ferroptosis inducers and regulatory molecules in hematological malignancy therapy

Ferroptosis, a novel form of iron-dependent cell death, has emerged as a potential avenue for promoting tumor cell death by causing cell membrane rupture and the accumulation of lipid peroxides (LPO) in the cell. Since its discovery in 2012, extensive research has been conducted to explore the mechanism of ferroptosis inducers, including erastin, sulfasalazine, and sorafenib. These compounds inhibit system XC-, while Ras-selective lethal small molecule 3 (RSL3) and FION2 specifically target GPX4 to promote ferroptosis. Therefore, targeting ferroptosis presents a promising therapeutic approach for malignant tumors. While the study of ferroptosis in solid tumors has made significant progress, there is limited information available on its role in hematological tumors. This review aims to summarize the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis inducers and discuss their clinical applications in hematological malignancies. Furthermore, the identification of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and genes that regulate key molecules in the ferroptosis pathway could provide new targets and establish a molecular theoretical foundation for exploring novel ferroptosis inducers in hematological malignancies.

Epigenetic modifications: Key players in cancer heterogeneity and drug resistance

Cancer heterogeneity and drug resistance remain pivotal obstacles in effective cancer treatment and management. One major contributor to these challenges is epigenetic modifications - gene regulation that does not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself but significantly impacts gene expression. As we elucidate these phenomena, we underscore the pivotal role of epigenetic modifications in regulating gene expression, contributing to cellular diversity, and driving adaptive changes that can instigate therapeutic resistance. This review dissects essential epigenetic modifications - DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling - illustrating their significant yet complex contributions to cancer biology. While these changes offer potential avenues for therapeutic intervention due to their reversible nature, the interplay of epigenetic and genetic changes in cancer cells presents unique challenges that must be addressed to harness their full potential. By critically analyzing the current research landscape, we identify knowledge gaps and propose future research directions, exploring the potential of epigenetic therapies and discussing the obstacles in translating these concepts into effective treatments. This comprehensive review aims to stimulate further research and aid in developing innovative, patient-centered cancer therapies. Understanding the role of epigenetic modifications in cancer heterogeneity and drug resistance is critical for scientific advancement and paves the way towards improving patient outcomes in the fight against this formidable disease.

Deciphering the Epigenetic Symphony of Cancer: Insights and Epigenetic Therapies Implications

Epigenetic machinery is a cornerstone in normal cell development, orchestrating tissue-specific gene expression in mammalian cells. Aberrations in this intricate landscape drive substantial changes in gene function, emerging as a linchpin in cancer etiology and progression. While cancer was conventionally perceived as solely a genetic disorder, its contemporary definition encompasses genetic alterations intertwined with disruptive epigenetic abnormalities. This review explores the profound impact of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs on fundamental cellular processes. When these pivotal epigenetic mechanisms undergo disruption, they intricately guide the acquisition of the 6 hallmark characteristics of cancer within seemingly normal cells. Leveraging the latest advancements in decoding these epigenetic intricacies holds immense promise, heralding a new era in developing targeted and more efficacious treatment modalities against cancers driven by aberrant epigenetic modifications.

Targeting non-coding RNAs: Perspectives and challenges of in-silico approaches

The growing information currently available on the central role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including microRNAs (miRNAS) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) for chronic and degenerative human diseases makes them attractive therapeutic targets. RNAs carry out different functional roles in human biology and are deeply deregulated in several diseases. So far, different attempts to therapeutically target the 3D RNA structures with small molecules have been reported. In this scenario, the development of computational tools suitable for describing RNA structures and their potential interactions with small molecules is gaining more and more interest. Here, we describe the most suitable strategies to study ncRNAs through computational tools. We focus on methods capable of predicting 2D and 3D ncRNA structures. Furthermore, we describe computational tools to identify, design and optimize small molecule ncRNA binders. This review aims to outline the state of the art and perspectives of computational methods for ncRNAs over the past decade.

Role of epigenetic regulation in glaucoma

Glaucoma is the world's leading irreversible blinding eye disease. Lowering intraocular pressure is currently the only effective clinical treatment. However, there is a lack of long-acting IOP-lowering drugs, and some patients still experience retinal ganglion cell loss even with good intraocular pressure control. Currently, there is no effective method for neuroprotection and regeneration in clinical practice for glaucoma. In recent years, epigenetics has been widely researched and reported for its role in glaucoma's neuroprotection and regeneration. This article reviews the changes in histone modifications, DNA methylation, non-coding RNA, and m6A methylation in glaucoma, aiming to provide new perspectives for glaucoma management, protection of retinal ganglion cells, and axon regeneration by understanding epigenetic alterations.

The role of ncRNA regulatory mechanisms in diseases-case on gestational diabetes

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a class of RNA molecules that do not have the potential to encode proteins. Meanwhile, they can occupy a significant portion of the human genome and participate in gene expression regulation through various mechanisms. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pathologic condition of carbohydrate intolerance that begins or is first detected during pregnancy, making it one of the most common pregnancy complications. Although the exact pathogenesis of GDM remains unclear, several recent studies have shown that ncRNAs play a crucial regulatory role in GDM. Herein, we present a comprehensive review on the multiple mechanisms of ncRNAs in GDM along with their potential role as biomarkers. In addition, we investigate the contribution of deep learning-based models in discovering disease-specific ncRNA biomarkers and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of ncRNA. This might assist community-wide efforts to obtain insights into the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in disease and guide a novel approach for early diagnosis and treatment of disease.

A spotlight on the interplay between Wnt/β-catenin signaling and circular RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma progression

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers due to multifocal development and distant metastasis resulting from late diagnosis. Consequently, new approaches to HCC diagnosis and treatment are required to reduce mortality rates. A large body of evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are important in cancer initiation and progression. Cancer cells release many of these ncRNAs into the blood or urine, enabling their use as a diagnostic tool. Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) are as a members of the ncRNAs that regulate cancer cell expansion, migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance through different mechanisms such as the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling pathway. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway plays prominent roles in several biological processes including organogenesis, stem cell regeneration, and cell survival. Aberrant signaling of both pathways mentioned above could affect the progression and metastasis of many cancers, including HCC. Based on several studies investigated in the current review, circRNAs have an effect on HCC formation and progression by sponging miRNAs and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, circRNAs/miRNAs or RBPs/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway could be considered promising prognostic and therapeutic targets in HCC.

Molecular mechanisms of microRNA-301a during tumor progression and metastasis

Cancer is known as one of the leading causes of human deaths globally. Late diagnosis is considered as one of the main reasons for the high mortality rate among cancer patients. Therefore, the introduction of early diagnostic tumor markers can improve the efficiency of therapeutic modalities. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis. MiRNAs deregulation has been frequently reported during tumor progressions. Since, miRNAs have a high stability in body fluids; they can be used as the reliable non-invasive tumor markers. Here, we discussed the role of miR-301a during tumor progressions. MiR-301a mainly functions as an oncogene via the modulation of transcription factors, autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and signaling pathways. This review paves the way to suggest miR-301a as a non-invasive marker for the early tumor diagnosis. MiR-301a can also be suggested as an effective target in cancer therapy.

An Overview of Circulating Cell-Free Nucleic Acids in Diagnosis and Prognosis of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer due to its molecular heterogeneity and poor clinical outcomes. Analysis of circulating cell-free tumor nucleic acids (ctNAs) can improve our understanding of TNBC and provide efficient and non-invasive clinical biomarkers that may be representative of tumor heterogeneity. In this review, we summarize the potential of ctNAs to aid TNBC diagnosis and prognosis. For example, tumor fraction of circulating cell-free DNA (TFx) may be useful for molecular prognosis of TNBC: high TFx levels after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have been associated with shorter progression-free survival and relapse-free survival. Mutations and copy number variations of TP53 and PIK3CA/AKT genes in plasma may be important markers of TNBC onset, progression, metastasis, and for clinical follow-up. In contrast, the expression profile of circulating cell-free tumor non-coding RNAs (ctncRNAs) can be predictive of molecular subtypes of breast cancer and thus aid in the identification of TBNC. Finally, dysregulation of some circulating cell-free tumor miRNAs (miR17, miR19a, miR19b, miR25, miR93, miR105, miR199a) may have a predictive value for chemotherapy resistance. In conclusion, a growing number of efforts are highlighting the potential of ctNAs for future clinical applications in the diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of TNBC.

Role of non-coding RNAs and exosomal non-coding RNAs in retinoblastoma progression

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a rare aggressive intraocular malignancy of childhood that has the potential to affect vision, and can even be fatal in some children. While the tumor can be controlled efficiently at early stages, metastatic tumors lead to high mortality. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are implicated in a number of physiological cellular process, including differentiation, proliferation, migration, and invasion, The deregulation of ncRNAs is correlated with several diseases, particularly cancer. ncRNAs are categorized into two main groups based on their length, i.e. short and long ncRNAs. Moreover, ncRNA deregulation has been demonstrated to play a role in the pathogenesis and development of RB. Several ncRNAs, such as miR-491-3p, miR-613,and SUSD2 have been found to act as tumor suppressor genes in RB, but other ncRNAs, such as circ-E2F3, NEAT1, and TUG1 act as tumor promoter genes. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs can provide new opportunities for RB therapy. In the present review, we discuss the functional roles of the most important ncRNAs in RB, their interaction with the genes responsible for RB initiation and progression, and possible future clinical applications as diagnostic and prognostic tools or as therapeutic targets.

RASSF8-AS1 displays low expression in colorectal cancer and up-regulates RASSF8 to suppress cell invasion and migration

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most prevalent cancers. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important participant in various cancers. Based on the literature, lncRNA RASSF8-AS1 inhibits laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) malignant progression. However, the role of RASSF8-AS1 in CRC remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study centered on uncovering the role of RASSF8-AS1 and its related regulatory mechanisms in CRC cells.

METHODS

RT-qPCR and western blot were performed to examine the expression of target genes. Functional assays were conducted to determine the effect of target genes on the migration and invasion of CRC cells. Mechanism assays were also carried out to figure out the specific downstream mechanisms of RASSF8-AS1. In vivo assays were also involved.

RESULTS

The expression of RASSF8-AS1 and RASSF8 was positively correlated in CRC, and the two genes were down-regulated in CRC cells and tissues. Moreover, CRC cell invasion and migration as well as xenograft CRC tumor growth suppressed by RASSF8-AS1 overexpression were entirely recovered by RASSF8 knockdown or partially rescued by miR-33a-5p augment. As for the downstream mechanism, RASSF8-AS1 sponged miR-33a-5p to up-regulate RASSF8, or recruited HNRNPC to stabilize RASSF8 mRNA.

CONCLUSION

RASSF8-AS1 modulates miR-33a-5p/HNRNPC/RASSF8 axis to further impede CRC cell invasion and migration.

AVAILABILITY OF DATA

The research data is confidential.

Roles and functions of antisense lncRNA in vascular aging

Vascular aging is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly population. Endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), forming the intima and media layers of the vessel wall respectively, are closely associated with the process of vascular aging and vascular aging-related diseases. Numerous studies have revealed the pathophysiologic mechanism through which lncRNA contributes to vascular aging, hence more attention is now paid to the role played by antisense long non-coding RNA (AS-lncRNA) in the pathogenesis of vascular aging. Nonetheless, only a small number of studies focus on the specific mechanism through which AS-lncRNA mediates vascular aging. In this review, we summarize the roles and functions of AS-lncRNA with regards to the development of vascular aging and vascular aging-related disease. We also aim to deepen our understanding of this process and provide alternative therapeutic modalities for vascular aging-related diseases.

Non-coding RNA in cancer

Majority of the human genome is transcribed to RNAs that do not encode proteins. These non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play crucial roles in regulating the initiation and progression of various cancers. Given the importance of the ncRNAs, the roles of ncRNAs in cancers have been reviewed elsewhere. Thus, in this review, we mainly focus on the recent studies of the function, regulatory mechanism and therapeutic potential of the ncRNAs including microRNA (miRNA), long ncRNA (lncRNA), circular RNA (circRNA) and PIWI interacting RNA (piRNA), in different type of cancers.

Role of long non-coding RNAs on the regulation of Nrf2 in chronic diseases

Studies have identified dysregulated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in several diseases at transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. Although our mechanistic knowledge on the regulation of lncRNAs is still limited, one of the mechanisms of action attributed is binding and regulating transcription factors, thus controlling gene expression and protein function. One such transcription factor is nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which plays a critical biological role in maintaining cellular homeostasis at multiple levels in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. The levels of Nrf2 were found to be down-regulated in many chronic diseases, signifying that Nrf2 can be a key therapeutic target. Few lncRNAs like lncRNA ROR, ENSMUST00000125413, lncRNA ODRUL, Nrf2-lncRNA have been associated with the Nrf2 signaling pathway in response to various stimuli, including stress. This review discusses the regulation of Nrf2 in different responses and the potential role of specific lncRNA in modulating its transcriptional activities. This review further helps to enhance our knowledge on the regulatory role of the critical antioxidant transcription factor, Nrf2.

Long noncoding RNAs as novel biomarkers for Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disease characterized by disordered glucagon secretion, insulin resistance in target tissues, and decreased islet β-cell mass and function. The routine diagnosis was based on measurements of metabolic markers, while genetic risk factors have been considered to increase the probability of predicting the development of the disease. Recent evidence suggests that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate gene expression in various physiological and pathological processes. As increasing lncRNAs are identified in β cells, understanding the regulatory roles of lncRNAs in T2D becomes indispensable. In this review, we discuss the potential role of lncRNAs contributing to β-cell identity and T2D susceptibility, which provide a perspective insight into the development of novel diagnosis biomarkers for T2D.