LINC00518: a key player in tumor progression and clinical outcomes

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), defined as RNA molecules exceeding 200 nucleotides in length, have been implicated in the regulation of various biological processes and the progression of tumors. Among them, LINC00518, a recently identified lncRNA encoded by a gene located on chromosome 6p24.3, consists of three exons and is predicted to positively regulate the expression of specific genes. LINC00518 has emerged as a key oncogenic lncRNA in multiple cancer types. It exerts its tumor-promoting effects by modulating the expression of several target genes, primarily through acting as a sponge for microRNAs (miRNAs). Additionally, LINC00518 influences critical signaling pathways, including the Wnt/β-catenin, JAK/STAT, and integrin β3/FAK pathways. Elevated levels of LINC00518 in tumor tissues are associated with increased tumor size, advanced clinical stage, metastasis, and poor survival prognosis. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the genetic characteristics, expression patterns, biological functions, and underlying mechanisms of LINC00518 in human diseases.

Keywords: LINC00518; biological marker; expression; lncRNA; mechanism; tumor.

Figure 1

LINC00518 is located on human chromosome 6 and comprises 3 exons, with the potential to generate up to 8 transcript variants according to the NCBI database. Furthermore, LINC00518 demonstrates diverse functions across multiple biological levels, including DNA, mRNA, miRNA, and protein interactions. These multifaceted roles collectively regulate the biological functions of LINC00518 in tumors (the chromosome map is provided by the Genecard website, while the rest is created using the Figdraw 2.0 platform).

Figure 2

LINC00518 plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of tumors. Its overexpression significantly promotes tumor cell proliferation, invasion, migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and tumor angiogenesis, while also reducing tumor cell apoptosis. Additionally, LINC00518 has been observed to decrease drug sensitivity during radiotherapy and chemotherapy, thereby impacting treatment efficacy. Promotes →; Inhibits ⟞.

Figure 3

LINC00518-related gene network and potential downstream regulatory mechanisms (by Figdraw 2.0). BRCA, breast cancer; PC, prostate cancer; NSCLC, non-small cell lung cancer; LUAD, lung adenocarcinoma; CMM, melanoma; MM, multiple myeloma; CC, clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Promotes →; Inhibits ⟞.

Figure 4

The left diagram illustrates the general process of miRNA inhibiting mRNA translation. The right figure demonstrates how lncRNA acts like a sponge to adsorb miRNA, thereby negating its original function of inhibiting mRNA translation. Consequently, by directly interacting with miRNAs, lncRNAs can indirectly regulate other downstream genes.