Long Non-Coding RNA Review and Implications in Lung Diseases

Abstract

Non-coding genes occupy the majority of the human genome and have recently garnered increased attention for their implications in a range of diseases. This review illustrates the current scientific landscape concerning long non-coding RNA biogenesis, regulation, and degradation, as well as their functional roles in lung pathogenesis. LncRNAs share many similar biogenesis and regulatory processes with mRNA, such as capping, polyadenylation, post-transcriptional modifications, and exonuclease degradation. Evidence suggests that these lncRNAs become dysregulated in lung diseases such as Acute Lung Injury, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, COPD, Lung Cancer, and Pulmonary Arterial Fiypertension. Some lncRNAs have known functions, but the overwhelming majority requires further research to completely understand.

Keywords: Acute lung injury, Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; COPD; Long non-coding RNA; Non-small cell lung cancer; Pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Figure 1

Representation of sequential biogenesis, regulation, and degradation of lncRNA. LncRNA introns and exons are collectively transcribed with RNA Polymerase II. Alternative splicing then removes introns while 5’ capping and polyadenylation are occurring. Methyl groups are added to Adenosine at the N6 position for further regulation, producing the mature lncRNA transcript ready for biological function. LncRNAs are decapped by Dcp2, destabilized by various miRNAs, and ultimately degraded by RATI exonuclease.