Long Non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and Cancer: A Focus on Four Key Areas

Submission Deadline: 30 June 2025 View: 9 Submit to Special Issue

Guest Editors

Dr. Pierlorenzo Pallante

Email: pierlorenzo.pallante@cnr.it

Affiliation: Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS) “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131, Naples, Italy.

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Research Interests: Non-coding RNA, cancer

Dr. Francesco Esposito

Email: f.esposito@ieos.cnr.it

Affiliation: Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS) “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131, Naples, Italy.

Homepage:

Research Interests: Non-coding RNA, cancer

Summary

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), once considered "molecular noise," have emerged as significant players in various biological processes, especially cancer. These RNA molecules don't code for proteins but can regulate gene expression by acting as "switches" that turn genes on or off. Their ability to regulate gene expression and influence various cellular processes makes them attractive targets for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. A multidisciplinary approach combining molecular biology, bioinformatics, and clinical research is essential to fully unravel the complex role of lncRNAs in cancer and translate these findings into improved patient outcomes.

As lncRNAs represent a novel area in cancer research, researchers are encouraged to specifically focus on four key aspects of lncRNA research:

1-Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis and Prognosis: LncRNAs can be valuable biomarkers for early cancer detection. By analyzing the expression profiles of lncRNAs across various tumor types, unique patterns associated with specific cancers can be identified, which aids in earlier diagnosis and more accurate prognosis.

2-Molecular Mechanisms in Tumorigenesis: LncRNAs play a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes involved in tumorigenesis. By investigating the interactions between lncRNAs, proteins, and other molecules, new mechanisms driving cancer development and progression could be uncovered. Gaining a better understanding of these mechanisms may help identify novel therapeutic targets for treatment.

3-Therapeutic Targets: Given their involvement in cancer, lncRNAs present promising targets for new cancer therapies. Strategies such as siRNA, and CRISPR-Cas9 can be employed to modulate lncRNA expression, potentially inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis.

4-Therapy Resistance: LncRNAs also contribute to the development of therapy resistance in cancer. By understanding how lncRNAs influence drug resistance, more effective treatment strategies to overcome this challenge could be developed.

Research articles and reviews that characterize the deregulation of lncRNAs in various human cancers are encouraged.

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