Non-Coding RNAs and Innate Immune Responses in Cancer

Abstract

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and the innate immune system are closely related, acting as defense mechanisms and regulating gene expression and innate immunity. Both are modulators in the initiation, development and progression of cancer. We aimed to review the major types of ncRNAs, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), with a focus on cancer, innate immunity, and inflammation. We found that ncRNAs are closely related to innate immunity, epigenetics, chronic inflammation, and cancer and share properties such as inducibility, specificity, memory, and transfer. These similarities and interrelationships suggest that ncRNAs and modulators of trained immunity, together with the control of chronic inflammation, can be combined to develop novel therapeutic approaches for personalized cancer treatment. In conclusion, the close relationship between ncRNAs, the innate immune system, and inflammation highlights their importance in cancer pathways and their potential as targets for novel therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: cancer; chronic inflammation; epimutation; immune-inducible; inheritance; miRNA; piRNA; siRNA; specificity; trained immunity; transfer.

Figure 1

Dysregulation of siRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, piRNAs, and innate immunity leads to chronic inflammation and cancer. PIWIL modulate cells such as neutrophils, monocytes, and dendritic and NK cells.

Figure 2

Specific regulation in the proliferation and apoptosis of pre-leukemic B-cell clones by lncRNA Colorectal neoplasia differentially expressed (CRNDE), miR-345-5p, and interferon-dependent trained immunity. Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2).