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Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases
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Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases

A special issue of Genes (ISSN 2073-4425). This special issue belongs to the section "Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 January 2023) | Viewed by 58154

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Deborah J. Good

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
Interests: molecular genetic regulation of body weight, reproduction; and exercise behavior; bHLH transcription factors; Prader-Willi Syndrome; SNORD116; NHLH2

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are arguably the enigma of the RNA transcriptome. First, while there are more annotated non-coding genes (23,995) compared to coding genes (20,440) on the latest release of the Ensembl! Human assembly (GRCH38.p13, Ensembl! Release, August 2020), we know far less about each of the non-coding genes in terms of their regulation, molecular functions, and interactions. Further, we are only beginning to understand the role of differential regulation or function of ncRNAs caused by genetic and epigenetic perturbations such as single nucleotide variants (SNV), deletions, insertions, and histone/DNA modifications. Emerging roles for ncRNAs are have been identified in neurological, cardiovascular, immune, and digestive systems, to name a few.  It is now time to explore how altered function or expression on ncRNAs can lead to disease. Examples include cancer, Prader-Willi Syndrome, cardiac arrhythmias, and Spinal Motor Neuron Disease, to name a few. It is clear that as we begin to understand this class of RNAs, strategies to target ncRNAs could lead to improved therapeutic interventions for some conditions. 

This Special Issue will comprise reviews and original research articles focused on the recent advances in all types of ncRNAs in human health and disease.  Of special interest are hypothesis-based review articles that seek to put forward novel theories with some supportive evidence, including in silico analyses or other data. Articles can focus on ncRNAs as a whole, any of the subclasses of ncRNAs, including piwiRNA, miRNA, snoRNA, lncRNAs, or individual ncRNAs, and should describe how genetic or genomic alterations in the ncRNAs or there interaction sites on DNA, RNA and proteins can lead to human disease. Articles without relevance to human disease or those that do no focus on disease caused by perturbation of ncRNAs expression, function, or interaction will not be accepted for this special issue.

Prof. Dr. Deborah J. Good
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Genes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Piwi interacting RNA (piRNA) 
  • MicroRNA (miRNA) 
  • Small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) 
  • Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) 
  • Large intergenic non-coding RNA (lincRNA) 
  • Transcribed ultraconserved regions (T-UCRs) 
  • Disease-associated genetics/genomics

Published Papers (23 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

12 pages, 1315 KiB  
Editorial
Non-Coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases
by Deborah J. Good
Genes 2023, 14(7), 1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes14071429 - 11 Jul 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1634
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are, arguably, the enigma of the RNA transcriptome. Even though there are more annotated ncRNAs (25,967) compared to mRNAs (19,827), we know far less about each of the genes that produce ncRNA, especially in terms of their regulation, molecular functions, [...] Read more.
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are, arguably, the enigma of the RNA transcriptome. Even though there are more annotated ncRNAs (25,967) compared to mRNAs (19,827), we know far less about each of the genes that produce ncRNA, especially in terms of their regulation, molecular functions, and interactions. Further, we are only beginning to understand the role of differential regulation or function of ncRNAs caused by genetic and epigenetic perturbations, such as single nucleotide variants (SNV), deletions, insertions, and histone/DNA modifications. The 22 papers in this Special Issue describe the emerging roles of ncRNAs in neurological, cardiovascular, immune, and hepatic systems, to name a few, as well as in diseases such as cancer, Prader–Willi Syndrome, cardiac arrhythmias, and diabetes. As we begin to understand the function and regulation of this class of RNAs, strategies targeting ncRNAs could lead to improved therapeutic interventions for some conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

13 pages, 2819 KiB  
Article
Identification of Circular RNA Profiles in the Liver of Diet-Induced Obese Mice and Construction of the ceRNA Network
by Xiaoxiao Zhang, Shuhua Gu, Shunyi Shen, Tao Luo, Haiyi Zhao, Sijia Liu, Jingjie Feng, Maosheng Yang, Laqi Yi, Zhaohan Fan, Yu Liu and Rui Han
Genes 2023, 14(3), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes14030688 - 10 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1453
Abstract
Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, metabolic, and respiratory diseases, and it has become an important social health problem affecting the health of the population. Obesity is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. In this study, we constructed a [...] Read more.
Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, metabolic, and respiratory diseases, and it has become an important social health problem affecting the health of the population. Obesity is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. In this study, we constructed a diet-induced obese C57BL/6J mouse model and performed deep RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on liner-depleted RNA extracted from the liver tissues of the mice to explore the underlying mechanisms of obesity. A total of 7469 circular RNAs (circRNAs) were detected, and 21 were differentially expressed (DE) in the high-fat diet (HFD) and low-fat diet (LFD) groups. We then constructed a comprehensive circRNA-associated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that DE circRNAs associated with lipid metabolic-related pathways may act as miRNA sponges to modulate target gene expression. CircRNA1709 and circRNA4842 may serve as new candidates to regulate the expression of PTEN. This study provides systematic circRNA-associated ceRNA profiling in HFD mouse liver, and the results can aid early diagnosis and the selection of treatment targets for obesity in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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19 pages, 6854 KiB  
Article
MYC Causes Multiple Myeloma Progression via Attenuating TP53-Induced MicroRNA-34 Expression
by Yuki Murakami, Kei Kimura-Masuda, Tsukasa Oda, Ikuko Matsumura, Yuta Masuda, Rei Ishihara, Saki Watanabe, Yuko Kuroda, Tetsuhiro Kasamatsu, Nanami Gotoh, Hisashi Takei, Nobuhiko Kobayashi, Takayuki Saitoh, Hirokazu Murakami and Hiroshi Handa
Genes 2023, 14(1), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes14010100 - 29 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1653
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs and miRs) are small (19–25 base pairs) non-coding RNAs with the ability to modulate gene expression. Previously, we showed that the miR-34 family is downregulated in multiple myeloma (MM) as the cancer progressed. In this study, we aimed to clarify the [...] Read more.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs and miRs) are small (19–25 base pairs) non-coding RNAs with the ability to modulate gene expression. Previously, we showed that the miR-34 family is downregulated in multiple myeloma (MM) as the cancer progressed. In this study, we aimed to clarify the mechanism of miRNA dysregulation in MM. We focused particularly on the interaction between MYC and the TP53-miR34 axis because there is a discrepancy between increased TP53 and decreased miR-34 expressions in MM. Using the nutlin-3 or Tet-on systems, we caused wild-type (WT) p53 protein accumulation in human MM cell lines (HMCLs) and observed upregulated miR-34 expression. Next, we found that treatment with an Myc inhibitor alone did not affect miR-34 expression levels, but when it was coupled with p53 accumulation, miR-34 expression increased. In contrast, forced MYC activation by the MYC-ER system reduced nutlin-3-induced miR-34 expression. We also observed that TP53 and MYC were negatively correlated with mature miR-34 expressions in the plasma cells of patients with MM. Our results suggest that MYC participates in the suppression of p53-dependent miRNA expressions. Because miRNA expression suppresses tumors, its inhibition leads to MM development and malignant transformation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 2166 KiB  
Article
Differential Expression of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and Their Related Functional Networks in New-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Chinese Rural Adults
by Yu Song, Luting Nie, Mian Wang, Wei Liao, Changsheng Huan, Zexin Jia, Dandan Wei, Pengling Liu, Keliang Fan, Zhenxing Mao, Chongjian Wang and Wenqian Huo
Genes 2022, 13(11), 2073; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13112073 - 09 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1562
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggested that the expression and inter-regulation of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA) were related to the development of diabetes. Based on bioinformatics analysis, this study aimed to comprehensively analyze the dysregulated RNA molecules related to new-onset [...] Read more.
Increasing evidence suggested that the expression and inter-regulation of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA) were related to the development of diabetes. Based on bioinformatics analysis, this study aimed to comprehensively analyze the dysregulated RNA molecules related to new-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Twenty-four patients with new-onset T2DM were included as cases, and sex- and age-matched participants were included as controls. The differentially expressed lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs between the two groups were screened by RNA sequencing. LncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network and enrichment analysis were used to reveal the RNA molecules that were potentially associated with T2DM and their early changes. A total of 123 lncRNAs, 49 miRNAs, and 312 mRNAs were differentially expressed in the new-onset T2DM (fold change ≥ 1.5 and p value < 0.05). Functional analysis revealed that differentially expressed RNAs were likely to play essential roles in diabetes-related pathways. In addition, the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network screened multiple hub mRNAs, and lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks showed that a single miRNA could be related to multiple lncRNAs, and then they coregulated more mRNAs. SLC25A4, PLCB1, AGTR2, PRKN, and SCD5 were shown to be important mRNAs in T2DM, and miR-199b-5p, miR-202-5p, miR-548o-3p as well as miR-1255b-5p could be involved in their regulation. In conclusion, several new and previously identified dysregulated lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs were found to be vital biomarkers in T2DM. Their alterations and interactions could modulate the pathophysiology of T2DM. Those findings may provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of T2DM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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9 pages, 1146 KiB  
Article
Polymorphism rs7079 in miR-31/-584 Binding Site in Angiotensinogen Gene Associates with Earlier Onset of Coronary Artery Disease in Central European Population
by Jan Novák, Soňa Maceková, Renata Héžová, Jan Máchal, Filip Zlámal, Ota Hlinomaz, Michal Rezek, Miroslav Souček, Anna Vašků, Ondřej Slabý and Julie Bienertová-Vašků
Genes 2022, 13(11), 1981; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13111981 - 30 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1192
Abstract
Angiotensinogen (AGT) represents a key component of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). Polymorphisms in the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of the AGT gene may alter miRNA binding and cause disbalance in the RAAS. Within this study, we evaluated the possible association of AGT +11525C/A [...] Read more.
Angiotensinogen (AGT) represents a key component of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). Polymorphisms in the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of the AGT gene may alter miRNA binding and cause disbalance in the RAAS. Within this study, we evaluated the possible association of AGT +11525C/A (rs7079) with the clinical characteristics of patients with coronary artery diseases (CAD). Selective coronarography was performed in 652 consecutive CAD patients. Clinical characteristics of the patients, together with peripheral blood samples for DNA isolation, were collected. The genotyping of rs7079 polymorphism was performed with TaqMan® SNP Genotyping Assays. We observed that patients with the CC genotype were referred for coronarography at a younger age compared to those with the AA+CA genotypes (CC vs. AA+CA: 59.1 ± 9.64 vs. 60.91 ± 9.5 (years), p = 0.045). Moreover, according to the logistic regression model, patients with the CC genotype presented more often with restenosis than those with the CA genotype (p = 0.0081). In conclusion, CC homozygotes for rs7079 present with CAD symptoms at a younger age compared with those with the AA+CA genotype, and they are more prone to present with restenosis compared with heterozygotes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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9 pages, 1079 KiB  
Article
Circular Noncoding RNA hsa_circ_0003570 as a Prognostic Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by Se Young Jang, Gyeonghwa Kim, Won Young Tak, Young Oh Kweon, Yu Rim Lee, Young Seok Han, Ja Ryung Han, Jung Gil Park, Min Kyu Kang, Hye Won Lee, Won Kee Lee, Soo Young Park and Keun Hur
Genes 2022, 13(8), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13081484 - 19 Aug 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1657
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are potential biomarkers owing to their stability, tissue specificity, and abundance. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of hsa_circ_0003570 expression and to investigate its potential as a biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated hsa_circ_0003570 expression in 121 [...] Read more.
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are potential biomarkers owing to their stability, tissue specificity, and abundance. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of hsa_circ_0003570 expression and to investigate its potential as a biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated hsa_circ_0003570 expression in 121 HCC tissue samples, its association with clinicopathological characteristics, and overall and progression-free survival. Hsa_circ_0003570 expression was downregulated in HCC tissues. Low hsa_circ_0003570 expression was more common in tumors larger than 5 cm (odds ratio (OR), 6.369; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.725–14.706; p < 0.001), vessel invasion (OR, 5.128; 95% CI, 2.288–11.494; p < 0.001); advanced tumor-node metastasis stage (III/IV; OR, 4.082; 95% CI, 1.866–8.929; p < 0.001); higher Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage (B/C; OR, 3.215; 95% CI, 1.475–6.993; p = 0.003); and higher AFP (>200 ng/mL; OR, 2.475; 95% CI, 1.159–5.291; p = 0.018). High hsa_circ_0003570 expression was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (hazard ratio (HR), 0.541; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.327–0.894; p = 0.017) and progression-free survival (HR, 0.633; 95% CI, 0.402–0.997; p = 0.048). Hsa_circ_0003570 is a potential prognostic biomarker in patients with HCC, and further validation of hsa_circ_0003570 is needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 3940 KiB  
Article
Identification and Validation of an m7G-Related lncRNAs Signature for Prognostic Prediction and Immune Function Analysis in Endometrial Cancer
by Jiani Sun, Li Li, Hong Chen, Lei Gan, Xiaoqing Guo and Jing Sun
Genes 2022, 13(8), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13081301 - 22 Jul 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2136
Abstract
Background: N7-methylguanosine is a novel kind of internal modification that is widespread in human mRNA. The relationship between m7G-related lncRNAs (MRL) and endometrial cancer remains unknown. The aim of our study is to explore a predictive prognosis MRL signature in endometrial cancer and [...] Read more.
Background: N7-methylguanosine is a novel kind of internal modification that is widespread in human mRNA. The relationship between m7G-related lncRNAs (MRL) and endometrial cancer remains unknown. The aim of our study is to explore a predictive prognosis MRL signature in endometrial cancer and identify the underlying biological mechanism. Methods: We obtained RNA-seq profiles, clinical data, and information on somatic mutations from the TCGA database and obtained m7G-related genes from a previous study. MRLs were identified through a co-expression network. The prognostic model was constructed based on 10 m7G-related lncRNAs. Differentially expressed genes between low- and high-risk groups were identified for further analysis, consisting of functional enrichment analysis, immune function analysis, somatic mutation analysis, and potential drugs exploration. Results: We constructed a 10-MRLs signature. According to the risk score, the signature was classified into high- and low-risk groups. The signature had a reliable capacity for predicting the prognosis of endometrial cancer patients. The findings about differentially expressed genes were also of great significance for therapeutic treatments for endometrial cancer and gave novel insights into exploring the underlying molecular mechanism. Conclusion: The prognostic model based on 10 MRLs is a reliable and promising approach for predicting clinical outcomes and suggesting therapeutic methods for endometrial cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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9 pages, 426 KiB  
Article
Genetic Variants of MIR27A, MIR196A2 May Impact the Risk for the Onset of Coronary Artery Disease in the Pakistani Population
by Taqweem Ul Haq, Abdul Zahoor, Yasir Ali, Yangchao Chen, Fazal Jalil and Aftab Ali Shah
Genes 2022, 13(5), 747; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13050747 - 24 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1562
Abstract
Genetic variants in microRNA genes have a detrimental effect on miRNA-mediated regulation of gene expression and may contribute to coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is the primary cause of mortality worldwide. Several environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors are responsible for CAD susceptibility. The [...] Read more.
Genetic variants in microRNA genes have a detrimental effect on miRNA-mediated regulation of gene expression and may contribute to coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is the primary cause of mortality worldwide. Several environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors are responsible for CAD susceptibility. The contribution of protein-coding genes is extensively studied. However, the role of microRNA genes in CAD is at infancy. The study is aimed to investigate the impact of rs895819, rs11614913, and rs2168518 variants in MIR27A, MIR196A2, and MIR4513, respectively, in CAD using allele-specific PCR. Results: For variant rs11614913, significant distribution of the genotypes among the cases and controls was determined by co-dominant [χ2 = 54.4; p value ≤ 0.0001], dominant (C/C vs. C/T + T/T) [OR = 0.257 (0.133–0.496); p value ≤ 0.0001], recessive (T/T vs. C/T + C/C) [OR = 1.56 (0.677–0.632); p value = 0.398], and additive models [OR = 0.421 (0.262–0.675); p value = 0.0004]. Similarly, a significant association of rs895819 was determined by co-dominant [χ2 = 9.669; p value ≤ 0.008], dominant (A/A vs. A/G + G/G) [OR = 0.285 (0.1242–0.6575); p value ≤ 0.0034], recessive (G/G vs. A/G + A/A) [OR = 0.900 (0.3202–3.519); p value = 1.000], and additive models [OR = 0.604 (0.3640–1.002); p value = 0.05] while no significant association of rs2168518 with CAD was found. Conclusion: The variants rs895819 and rs11614913 are the susceptibility factors for CAD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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18 pages, 2604 KiB  
Article
Differential Expression Profiles and Bioinformatics Analysis of tRNA-Derived Small RNAs in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer in a Chinese Population
by Chuan Qin, Zheng-Hao Chen, Rui Cao, Ming-Jun Shi and Ye Tian
Genes 2022, 13(4), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13040601 - 28 Mar 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2657
Abstract
Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) leads to a large societal burden. Recently, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel type of noncoding RNA (ncRNAs), have been identified. However, the expression patterns and functions of tsRNAs in MIBC have not yet been identified. Here, RNA sequencing, [...] Read more.
Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) leads to a large societal burden. Recently, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel type of noncoding RNA (ncRNAs), have been identified. However, the expression patterns and functions of tsRNAs in MIBC have not yet been identified. Here, RNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and quantitative reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to screen the expression profiles and predict the potential roles of tsRNAs in MIBC. Of 406 tsRNAs differentially expressed in MIBC tissues, 91 tsRNAs were significantly differentially expressed. Then, four candidate tsRNAs, tiRNA-1:34-Val-CAC-2, tiRNA-1:33-Gly-GCC-1, tRF-1:32-Gly-GCC-1, and tRF-+1:T20-Ser-TGA-1, were selected. Next, a bioinformatics analysis showed the potential target genes and tsRNA–mRNA network. The most significant and meaningful terms of gene ontology were the positive regulation of the phosphate metabolic process, lamellipodium, and protein-cysteine S-acyltransferase activity in the biological process, cellular component, and molecular function, respectively. In addition, the top four pathways were predicted by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database (KEGG). Finally, qRT-PCR demonstrated a similar expression pattern compared to sequencing data for the candidate tsRNAs. In short, we find differential expression profiles and predict that tiRNA-1:33-Gly-GCC-1, tRF-1:32-Gly-GCC-1, and tRF-+1:T20-Ser-TGA-1 are very likely to engage in the pathophysiological process of MIBC via regulating the target genes in the key pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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13 pages, 3031 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of microRNA Binding Site Distribution and microRNA-Mediated Gene Expression Repression of Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes
by Shuangmei Tian, Jing Wang, Fangyuan Zhang and Degeng Wang
Genes 2022, 13(3), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13030481 - 09 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2328
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of short, noncoding RNAs that can regulate gene expression levels of over half of the human genome. Previous studies on the role of miRNAs in cancer showed overall widespread downregulation of miRNAs as a hallmark of human cancer, [...] Read more.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of short, noncoding RNAs that can regulate gene expression levels of over half of the human genome. Previous studies on the role of miRNAs in cancer showed overall widespread downregulation of miRNAs as a hallmark of human cancer, though individual miRNAs can be both tumor suppressive and oncogenic, and cancer genes are speculated to be more targeted by miRNA. However, the extents to which oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes (TSG) are controlled by miRNA have not been compared. To achieve this goal, we constructed lists of oncogenes and TSGs and compared them with each other, and with the whole protein-coding gene population, in terms of miRNA binding sites distribution and expression level changes upon genetic disruption of miRNA production. As expected, the results show that cancer gene mRNAs anchor more miRNA binding sites, and are under a higher degree of miRNA-mediated repression at both mRNA abundance and translation efficiency levels than the whole protein-coding gene population. Importantly, on average, TSG mRNAs are more highly targeted and regulated by miRNA than oncogene mRNAs. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comparison of miRNA regulation of oncogenes and TSGs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 2488 KiB  
Article
“Silicon-On-Insulator”-Based Nanosensor for the Revelation of MicroRNA Markers of Autism
by Yuri D. Ivanov, Kristina A. Malsagova, Kristina V. Goldaeva, Tatyana O. Pleshakova, Ivan D. Shumov, Rafael A. Galiullin, Svetlana I. Kapustina, Ivan Y. Iourov, Svetlana G. Vorsanova, Stepan V. Ryabtsev, Vladimir P. Popov and Alexander I. Archakov
Genes 2022, 13(2), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13020199 - 22 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2597
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which represent short (20 to 22 nt) non-coding RNAs, were found to play a direct role in the development of autism in children. Herein, a highly sensitive “silicon-on-insulator”-based nanosensor (SOI-NS) has been developed for the revelation of autism-associated miRNAs. This SOI-NS [...] Read more.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which represent short (20 to 22 nt) non-coding RNAs, were found to play a direct role in the development of autism in children. Herein, a highly sensitive “silicon-on-insulator”-based nanosensor (SOI-NS) has been developed for the revelation of autism-associated miRNAs. This SOI-NS comprises an array of nanowire sensor structures fabricated by complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible technology, gas-phase etching, and nanolithography. In our experiments described herein, we demonstrate the revelation of ASD-associated miRNAs in human plasma with the SOI-NS, whose sensor elements were sensitized with oligonucleotide probes. In order to determine the concentration sensitivity of the SOI-NS, experiments on the detection of synthetic DNA analogues of autism-associated miRNAs in purified buffer were performed. The lower limit of miRNA detection attained in our experiments amounted to 10−17 M. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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19 pages, 4765 KiB  
Article
MUC14-Related ncRNA-mRNA Network in Breast Cancer
by Shuqian Wang, Jing Jin, Jing Chen and Weiyang Lou
Genes 2021, 12(11), 1677; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12111677 - 23 Oct 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2076
Abstract
Abstract: Background Growing evidences have showed that mucins (MUCs) are linked to occurrence and progression of human cancers. However, a comprehensive study regarding the expression, diagnosis, prognosis and mechanism of MUCs in breast cancer remains absent. Methods: A series of in silico [...] Read more.
Abstract: Background Growing evidences have showed that mucins (MUCs) are linked to occurrence and progression of human cancers. However, a comprehensive study regarding the expression, diagnosis, prognosis and mechanism of MUCs in breast cancer remains absent. Methods: A series of in silico analyses were employed in this study. Results: After performing comprehensive analysis for MUCs, MUC14 was identified as the most potential regulator in breast cancer, with downregulated expression in both mRNA and protein levels and significant diagnostic and prognostic values in breast cancer. Mechanistic exploration revealed that a potential ncRNA-mRNA axis, involving LINC01128/LINC01140/SGMS1-AS1/LINC00667-miR-137/miR-429-BCL2, might be partially responsible for MUC14′s functions in breast cancer. Conclusions: Collectively, our study elucidated a key role of MUC14 in breast cancer and also provided some clues for explanation of the molecular action mechanism of MUC14 in breast cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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18 pages, 4091 KiB  
Article
N6-Methyladenosine-Related lncRNA Signature Predicts the Overall Survival of Colorectal Cancer Patients
by Wei Song, Jun Ren, Wenzheng Yuan, Rensheng Xiang, Yuhang Ge and Tao Fu
Genes 2021, 12(9), 1375; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12091375 - 31 Aug 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3372
Abstract
Background: The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification can modify long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), thereby affecting the tumorigenesis and progression of tumors. However, the underlying role of m6A-modified lncRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains largely unknown. Therefore, our aim was to assess the prognostic value [...] Read more.
Background: The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification can modify long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), thereby affecting the tumorigenesis and progression of tumors. However, the underlying role of m6A-modified lncRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains largely unknown. Therefore, our aim was to assess the prognostic value of m6A-modified lncRNAs in CRC patients. Methods: The gene expression and clinicopathological data of CRC were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Pearson correlation analysis was used to investigate the m6A-modified lncRNAs. Consensus clustering was conducted to identify molecular subtypes of CRC, and the clinical significance of molecular subtypes was identified. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis (LASSO) was applied to establish a risk signature. Finally, a prognostic nomogram with risk score and clinicopathological variables was established. Results: In total, 29 m6A-modified lncRNAs were identified as prognostic lncRNAs. Two molecular clusters were identified and significant differences were found with respect to clinicopathological features and prognosis. Cluster1 is associated with poor overall survival (OS), down-regulation of Programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression, lower immune score, and less immune cell infiltration. Then, an m6A-modified lncRNA signature for predicting OS was constructed in the TCGA training cohort. The signature demonstrated favorable prediction performance in both training and validation sets. Compared with low-risk patients, patients with high risk showed worse clinical outcomes, lower immune scores, and downregulated PD-L1 expression. Further analysis indicated that the signature was an independent prognostic indicator, and then a prognostic nomogram based on risk score, tumor location, and tumor stage was established. Conclusions: Our study identified a seven m6A-modified lncRNA signature and established a prognostic nomogram that reliably predicts OS in CRC. These findings may improve the understanding of m6A modifications in CRC and provide insights into the prognosis and treatment strategy of CRC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 1583 KiB  
Article
Modulation of Cellular MicroRNA by HIV-1 in Burkitt Lymphoma Cells—A Pathway to Promoting Oncogenesis
by Beatrice Relebogile Ramorola, Taahira Goolam-Hoosen, Leonardo Alves de Souza Rios and Shaheen Mowla
Genes 2021, 12(9), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12091302 - 24 Aug 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1941
Abstract
Viruses and viral components have been shown to manipulate the expression of host microRNAs (miRNAs) to their advantage, and in some cases to play essential roles in cancer pathogenesis. Burkitt lymphoma (BL), a highly aggressive B-cell derived cancer, is significantly over-represented among people [...] Read more.
Viruses and viral components have been shown to manipulate the expression of host microRNAs (miRNAs) to their advantage, and in some cases to play essential roles in cancer pathogenesis. Burkitt lymphoma (BL), a highly aggressive B-cell derived cancer, is significantly over-represented among people infected with HIV. This study adds to accumulating evidence demonstrating that the virus plays a direct role in promoting oncogenesis. A custom miRNA PCR was used to identify 32 miRNAs that were differently expressed in Burkitt lymphoma cells exposed to HIV-1, with a majority of these being associated with oncogenic processes. Of those, hsa-miR-200c-3p, a miRNA that plays a crucial role in cancer cell migration, was found to be significantly downregulated in both the array and in single-tube validation assays. Using an in vitro transwell system we found that this downregulation correlated with significantly enhanced migration of BL cells exposed to HIV-1. Furthermore, the expression of the ZEB1 and ZEB2 transcription factors, which are promotors of tumour invasion and metastasis, and which are direct targets of hsa-miR-200c-3p, were found to be enhanced in these cells. This study therefore identifies novel miRNAs as role players in the development of HIV-associated BL, with one of these miRNAs, hsa-miR-200c-3p, being a candidate for further clinical studies as a potential biomarker for prognosis in patients with Burkitt lymphoma, who are HIV positive. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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9 pages, 611 KiB  
Article
Deciphering the Variants Located in the MIR196A2, MIR146A, and MIR423 with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus in Pakistani Population
by Muhammad Sohail Khan, Bashir Rahman, Taqweem Ul Haq, Fazal Jalil, Bilal Muhammad Khan, Saleh N. Maodaa, Saleh A. Al-Farraj, Hamed A. El-Serehy and Aftab Ali Shah
Genes 2021, 12(5), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12050664 - 28 Apr 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1981
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that control the post-transcriptional gene expression. They play a pivotal role in the regulation of important physiological processes. Variations in miRNA genes coding for mature miRNA sequences have been implicated in several diseases. However, the association [...] Read more.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that control the post-transcriptional gene expression. They play a pivotal role in the regulation of important physiological processes. Variations in miRNA genes coding for mature miRNA sequences have been implicated in several diseases. However, the association of variants in miRNAs genes with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in the Pakistani population is rarely reported. Therefore, the current study was designed to investigate the association of rs11614913 T/C (MIR196A2), rs2910164 G/C (MIR146A), and rs6505162 C/A (MIR423) in clinicopathological proven T2DM patients and gender-matched healthy controls. The tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain (ARMS-PCR) reaction method was used to determine the genotypes and to establish the association of each variant with T2DM through inherited models. In conclusion, the present study showed that variants rs11614913 T/C and rs2910164 G/C were linked with the risk of T2DM. The data suggested that rs11614913 T/C and rs2910164 G/C could be considered as novel risk factors in the pathogenesis of T2DM in the Pakistani population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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10 pages, 700 KiB  
Article
piRNA-823 Is a Unique Potential Diagnostic Non-Invasive Biomarker in Colorectal Cancer Patients
by Norhan A. Sabbah, Wael M. Abdalla, Walid A. Mawla, Nagla AbdAlMonem, Amal F. Gharib, Ahmed Abdul-Saboor, Abdallah S. Abdelazem and Nermin Raafat
Genes 2021, 12(4), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12040598 - 19 Apr 2021
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2541
Abstract
Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most important factor in deciding its prognosis, so the need to develop an accurate screening test is a must. P-element induced wimpy testis (PIWI) RNA-823 (piR-823) is one of the first piRNAs recognized to be [...] Read more.
Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most important factor in deciding its prognosis, so the need to develop an accurate screening test is a must. P-element induced wimpy testis (PIWI) RNA-823 (piR-823) is one of the first piRNAs recognized to be linked to malignancy. We aimed to investigate the expression levels of piR-823 in both serum and tissues of colorectal cancer patients and the ability to use its serum level as a non-invasive diagnostic biomarker to detect colorectal cancer. We determined piR-823 expression levels in 84 serum samples of CRC patients, 75 serum samples of healthy controls, and biological specimens obtained from the 84 patients with colorectal cancer from both the tumor tissues and the normal neighboring tissues using quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR. We showed that piR-823 had significantly higher serum and tissue expression levels in CRC patients compared to the controls. We observed a significant positive correlation between piR-823 serum levels and the staging of CRC, with significantly higher levels exhibiting advanced stages of CRC (III and IV). This translates into poorer differentiation and lymph node metastasis. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) test showed 83.3% sensitivity and 89.3% specificity at a cut-off value of >5.98-fold change, with an area under the curve of 0.933 (p < 0.0001) concerning the ability of piR-823 in diagnosing patients with colorectal carcinoma. piR-823 expression is upregulated in colorectal cancer patients’ serum and tissues, and it can be used as a diagnostic noninvasive biomarker for CRC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

14 pages, 3561 KiB  
Review
Analysis of SNHG14: A Long Non-Coding RNA Hosting SNORD116, Whose Loss Contributes to Prader–Willi Syndrome Etiology
by Shadi Ariyanfar and Deborah J. Good
Genes 2023, 14(1), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes14010097 - 29 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2199
Abstract
The Small Nucleolar Host Gene 14 (SNHG14) is a host gene for small non-coding RNAs, including the SNORD116 small nucleolar C/D box RNA encoding locus. Large deletions of the SNHG14 locus, as well as microdeletions of the SNORD116 locus, lead to [...] Read more.
The Small Nucleolar Host Gene 14 (SNHG14) is a host gene for small non-coding RNAs, including the SNORD116 small nucleolar C/D box RNA encoding locus. Large deletions of the SNHG14 locus, as well as microdeletions of the SNORD116 locus, lead to the neurodevelopmental genetic disorder Prader–Willi syndrome. This review will focus on the SNHG14 gene, its expression patterns, its role in human cancer, and the possibility that single nucleotide variants within the locus contribute to human phenotypes in the general population. This review will also include new in silico data analyses of the SNHG14 locus and new in situ RNA expression patterns of the Snhg14 RNA in mouse midbrain and hindbrain regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 767 KiB  
Review
The Potential of MicroRNAs as Clinical Biomarkers to Aid Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
by Molly Davies, Matthew G. Davey and Nicola Miller
Genes 2022, 13(11), 2054; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13112054 - 07 Nov 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1589
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a commonly diagnosed malignancy in women. When diagnosed at an early stage, survival outcomes are favourable for the vast majority, with up to 90% of ovarian cancer patients being free of disease at 5 years follow-up. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is [...] Read more.
Ovarian cancer is a commonly diagnosed malignancy in women. When diagnosed at an early stage, survival outcomes are favourable for the vast majority, with up to 90% of ovarian cancer patients being free of disease at 5 years follow-up. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the majority of patients remaining asymptomatic until the cancer has metastasised, resulting in poor outcomes for the majority. While the molecular era has facilitated the subclassification of the disease into distinct clinical subtypes, ovarian cancer remains managed and treated as a single disease entity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small (19–25 nucleotides), endogenous molecules which are integral to regulating gene expression. Aberrant miRNA expression profiles have been described in several cancers, and have been implicated to be useful biomarkers which may aid cancer diagnostics and treatment. Several preliminary studies have identified candidate tumour suppressor and oncogenic miRNAs which may be involved in the development and progression of ovarian cancer, highlighting their candidacy as oncological biomarkers; understanding the mechanisms by which these miRNAs regulate the key processes involved in oncogenesis can improve our overall understanding of cancer development and identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review highlights the potential role of miRNAs which may be utilised to aid diagnosis, estimate prognosis and enhance therapeutic strategies in the management of primary ovarian cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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30 pages, 1757 KiB  
Review
Role of miRNAs in Neurodegeneration: From Disease Cause to Tools of Biomarker Discovery and Therapeutics
by Bidisha Roy, Erica Lee, Teresa Li and Maria Rampersaud
Genes 2022, 13(3), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13030425 - 25 Feb 2022
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 4885
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases originate from neuronal loss in the central nervous system (CNS). These debilitating diseases progress with age and have become common due to an increase in longevity. The National Institute of Environmental Health Science’s 2021 annual report suggests around 6.2 million Americans [...] Read more.
Neurodegenerative diseases originate from neuronal loss in the central nervous system (CNS). These debilitating diseases progress with age and have become common due to an increase in longevity. The National Institute of Environmental Health Science’s 2021 annual report suggests around 6.2 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and there is a possibility that there will be 1.2 million Parkinson’s disease patients in the USA by 2030. There is no clear-cut universal mechanism for identifying neurodegenerative diseases, and therefore, they pose a challenge for neurobiology scientists. Genetic and environmental factors modulate these diseases leading to familial or sporadic forms. Prior studies have shown that miRNA levels are altered during the course of the disease, thereby suggesting that these noncoding RNAs may be the contributing factor in neurodegeneration. In this review, we highlight the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Through this review, we aim to achieve four main objectives: First, we highlight how dysregulation of miRNA biogenesis led to these diseases. Second, we highlight the computational or bioinformatics tools required to identify the putative molecular targets of miRNAs, leading to biological molecular pathways or mechanisms involved in these diseases. Third, we focus on the dysregulation of miRNAs and their target genes leading to several neurodegenerative diseases. In the final section, we highlight the use of miRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers in the early asymptomatic preclinical diagnosis of these age-dependent debilitating diseases. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and advances in the development of miRNA therapeutics for brain targeting. We list some of the innovative strategies employed to deliver miRNA into target cells and the relevance of these viral and non-viral carrier systems in RNA therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. In summary, this review highlights the relevance of studying brain-enriched miRNAs, the mechanisms underlying their regulation of target gene expression, their dysregulation leading to progressive neurodegeneration, and their potential for biomarker marker and therapeutic intervention. This review thereby highlights ways for the effective diagnosis and prevention of these neurodegenerative disorders in the near future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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15 pages, 2838 KiB  
Review
MicroRNA Interrelated Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Glioblastoma
by Botle Precious Setlai, Rodney Hull, Rui Manuel Reis, Cyril Agbor, Melvin Anyasi Ambele, Thanyani Victor Mulaudzi and Zodwa Dlamini
Genes 2022, 13(2), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13020244 - 27 Jan 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4485
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-coding RNAs that are 20–23 nucleotides in length, functioning as regulators of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. They are molecular modulators that regulate gene expression by suppressing gene translation through gene silencing/degradation, or by promoting translation of messenger RNA [...] Read more.
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-coding RNAs that are 20–23 nucleotides in length, functioning as regulators of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. They are molecular modulators that regulate gene expression by suppressing gene translation through gene silencing/degradation, or by promoting translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins. Circulating miRNAs have attracted attention as possible prognostic markers of cancer, which could aid in the early detection of the disease. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in tumorigenic processes, primarily by promoting tumor invasiveness and metastatic activity; this is a process that could be manipulated to halt or prevent brain metastasis. Studies show that miRNAs influence the function of EMT in glioblastomas. Thus, miRNA-related EMT can be exploited as a potential therapeutic target in glioblastomas. This review points out the interrelation between miRNA and EMT signatures, and how they can be used as reliable molecular signatures for diagnostic purposes or targeted therapy in glioblastomas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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13 pages, 2058 KiB  
Review
LncRNAs and the Angiogenic Switch in Cancer: Clinical Significance and Therapeutic Opportunities
by Peace Mabeta, Rodney Hull and Zodwa Dlamini
Genes 2022, 13(1), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13010152 - 15 Jan 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2539
Abstract
Angiogenesis is one of the hallmarks of cancer, and the establishment of new blood vessels is vital to allow for a tumour to grow beyond 1–2 mm in size. The angiogenic switch is the term given to the point where the number or [...] Read more.
Angiogenesis is one of the hallmarks of cancer, and the establishment of new blood vessels is vital to allow for a tumour to grow beyond 1–2 mm in size. The angiogenic switch is the term given to the point where the number or activity of the pro-angiogenic factors exceeds that of the anti-angiogenic factors, resulting in the angiogenic process proceeding, giving rise to new blood vessels accompanied by increased tumour growth, metastasis, and potential drug resistance. Long noncoding ribonucleic acids (lncRNAs) have been found to play a role in the angiogenic switch by regulating gene expression, transcription, translation, and post translation modification. In this regard they play both anti-angiogenic and pro-angiogenic roles. The expression levels of the pro-angiogenic lncRNAs have been found to correlate with patient survival. These lncRNAs are also potential drug targets for the development of therapies that will inhibit or modify tumour angiogenesis. Here we review the roles of lncRNAs in regulating the angiogenic switch. We cover specific examples of both pro and anti-angiogenic lncRNAs and discuss their potential use as both prognostic biomarkers and targets for the development of future therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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19 pages, 3205 KiB  
Review
Pseudogene Transcripts in Head and Neck Cancer: Literature Review and In Silico Analysis
by Juliana Carron, Rafael Della Coletta and Gustavo Jacob Lourenço
Genes 2021, 12(8), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12081254 - 17 Aug 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3216
Abstract
Once considered nonfunctional, pseudogene transcripts are now known to provide valuable information for cancer susceptibility, including head and neck cancer (HNC), a serious health problem worldwide, with about 50% unimproved overall survival over the last decades. The present review focuses on the role [...] Read more.
Once considered nonfunctional, pseudogene transcripts are now known to provide valuable information for cancer susceptibility, including head and neck cancer (HNC), a serious health problem worldwide, with about 50% unimproved overall survival over the last decades. The present review focuses on the role of pseudogene transcripts involved in HNC risk and prognosis. We combined current literature and in silico analyses from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to identify the most deregulated pseudogene transcripts in HNC and their genetic variations. We then built a co-expression network and performed gene ontology enrichment analysis to better understand the pseudogenes’ interactions and pathways in HNC. In the literature, few pseudogenes have been studied in HNC. Our in silico analysis identified 370 pseudogene transcripts associated with HNC, where SPATA31D5P, HERC2P3, SPATA31C2, MAGEB6P1, SLC25A51P1, BAGE2, DNM1P47, SPATA31C1, ZNF733P and OR2W5 were found to be the most deregulated and presented several genetic alterations. NBPF25P, HSP90AB2P, ZNF658B and DPY19L2P3 pseudogenes were predicted to interact with 12 genes known to participate in HNC, DNM1P47 was predicted to interact with the TP53 gene, and HLA-H pseudogene was predicted to interact with HLA-A and HLA-B genes. The identified pseudogenes were associated with cancer biology pathways involving cell communication, response to stress, cell death, regulation of the immune system, regulation of gene expression, and Wnt signaling. Finally, we assessed the prognostic values of the pseudogenes with the Kaplan–Meier Plotter database, and found that expression of SPATA31D5P, SPATA31C2, BAGE2, SPATA31C1, ZNF733P and OR2W5 pseudogenes were associated with patients’ survival. Due to pseudogene transcripts’ potential for cancer diagnosis, progression, and as therapeutic targets, our study can guide new research to HNC understanding and development of new target therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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22 pages, 1150 KiB  
Review
Roles of ncRNAs as ceRNAs in Gastric Cancer
by Junhong Ye, Jifu Li and Ping Zhao
Genes 2021, 12(7), 1036; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes12071036 - 02 Jul 2021
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4228
Abstract
Although ignored in the past, with the recent deepening of research, significant progress has been made in the field of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Accumulating evidence has revealed that microRNA (miRNA) response elements regulate RNA. Long ncRNAs, circular RNAs, pseudogenes, miRNAs, and messenger RNAs [...] Read more.
Although ignored in the past, with the recent deepening of research, significant progress has been made in the field of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Accumulating evidence has revealed that microRNA (miRNA) response elements regulate RNA. Long ncRNAs, circular RNAs, pseudogenes, miRNAs, and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) form a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network that plays an essential role in cancer and cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and autoimmune diseases. Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers, with a high degree of malignancy. Considerable progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanism and treatment of GC, but GC’s mortality rate is still high. Studies have shown a complex ceRNA crosstalk mechanism in GC. lncRNAs, circRNAs, and pseudogenes can interact with miRNAs to affect mRNA transcription. The study of the involvement of ceRNA in GC could improve our understanding of GC and lead to the identification of potential effective therapeutic targets. The research strategy for ceRNA is mainly to screen the different miRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs, pseudogenes, and mRNAs in each sample through microarray or sequencing technology, predict the ceRNA regulatory network, and, finally, conduct functional research on ceRNA. In this review, we briefly discuss the proposal and development of the ceRNA hypothesis and the biological function and principle of ceRNAs in GC, and briefly introduce the role of ncRNAs in the GC’s ceRNA network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-coding RNAs in Human Health and Diseases)
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