LncRNA-mediated regulation of cell signaling in cancer

Abstract

To date, a large number of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been recently discovered through functional genomics studies. Importantly, lncRNAs have been shown, in many cases, to function as master regulators for gene expression and thus, they can play a critical role in various biological functions and disease processes including cancer. Although the lncRNA-mediated gene expression involves various mechanisms, such as regulation of transcription, translation, protein modification, and the formation of RNA-protein or protein-protein complexes, in this review, we discuss the latest developments primarily in important cell signaling pathways regulated by lncRNAs in cancer.

Fig. 1. p53 and lncRNA auto-feedback regulatory network

Both DINO and Linc-RoR are p53 transcriptional targets. While DINO stabilizes p53, Linc-RoR inhibits p53 translation.

Fig. 2. Regulation of NF-κB signaling by lncRNAs

Both NKILA and PACER serve as an NF-κB promoter. On the other hand, Lethe suppresses NF-κB activity.

Fig. 3. Regulation of AKT activity by lncRNAs

AK023948 promotes AKT activity by stabilizing p85, a regulatory subunit of PI3K; LINK-A facilitates the interaction of AKT and PIP3, stimulating AKT activity. It remains to be determined whether lncRNAs can interact with PTEN or PP2A and thus impact AKT activity.