The functional role of long non-coding RNA in human carcinomas

Mol Cancer. 2011 Apr 13:10:38. doi: 10.1186/1476-4598-10-38.

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as new players in the cancer paradigm demonstrating potential roles in both oncogenic and tumor suppressive pathways. These novel genes are frequently aberrantly expressed in a variety of human cancers, however the biological functions of the vast majority remain unknown. Recently, evidence has begun to accumulate describing the molecular mechanisms by which these RNA species function, providing insight into the functional roles they may play in tumorigenesis. In this review, we highlight the emerging functional role of lncRNAs in human cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma / genetics*
  • Carcinoma / metabolism*
  • Carcinoma / pathology
  • Carcinoma / therapy
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / genetics
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic / genetics
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism
  • RNA, Untranslated / genetics
  • RNA, Untranslated / metabolism*
  • RNA, Untranslated / therapeutic use
  • Signal Transduction / genetics

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Untranslated