Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in many physiological and pathological processes, such as development, aging, immunity, and cancer. Mechanistically, lncRNAs exert their functions through interaction with proteins, genomic DNA, and other RNA, leading to transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, either in cis or in trans; it is often difficult to distinguish between these two regulatory mechanisms. A variety of approaches, including RNA interference, antisense oligonucleotides, CRISPR-based methods, and genetically engineered mouse models, have yielded abundant information about lncRNA functions and underlying mechanisms, albeit with many discrepancies. In this review, we elaborate on the challenges in ascribing functions to lncRNAs based on the features of lncRNAs, including the genomic location, copy number, domain structure, subcellular localization, stability, evolution, and expression pattern. We also describe a framework for the investigation of lncRNA functions and mechanisms of action. Rigorous characterization of cancer-implicated lncRNAs is critical for the identification of bona fide anticancer targets.
Keyphrases
- copy number
- gene expression
- mitochondrial dna
- genome wide
- network analysis
- papillary thyroid
- nucleic acid
- dna methylation
- genome wide identification
- transcription factor
- genome wide analysis
- poor prognosis
- healthcare
- crispr cas
- oxidative stress
- binding protein
- lymph node metastasis
- single molecule
- genome editing
- circulating tumor
- health information
- circulating tumor cells