Emerging Role and Therapeutic Potential of lncRNAs in Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Maintenance of the intestinal epithelium is dependent on the control of stem cell (SC) proliferation and differentiation. The fine regulation of these cellular processes requires a complex dynamic interplay between several signaling pathways, including Wnt, Notch, Hippo, EGF, Ephrin, and BMP/TGF-β. During the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), key events, such as oncogenic mutations, influence these signaling pathways, and tilt the homeostatic balance towards proliferation and dedifferentiation. Therapeutic strategies to specifically target these deregulated signaling pathways are of particular interest. However, systemic blocking or activation of these pathways poses major risks for normal stem cell function and tissue homeostasis. Interestingly, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently emerged as potent regulators of key cellular processes often deregulated in cancer. Because of their exceptional tissue and tumor specificity, these regulatory RNAs represent attractive targets for cancer therapy. Here, we discuss how lncRNAs participate in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and how they can contribute to the deregulation of each signaling pathway in CRC. Finally, we describe currently available molecular tools to develop lncRNA-targeted cancer therapies.

Targeting Signaling Pathway Networks in Several Malignant Tumors: Progresses and Challenges

“…In addition, lncRNA BCAR4 has been found to directly interact with and stabilize β-catenin protein, which promote the progress of CRC. Interaction between β-catenin and lncRNAs can also influence its cellular localization, CYTOR by favoring the nuclear localization of β-catenin to promote CRC metastasis (Schwarzmueller et al, 2020). Other malignant tumors are no exception, LncRNA CCAT2 and UCA1 can activate Wnt and promote the development, migration and invasion of BC.…”

An Overview of the Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Human Choriocarcinoma

“…Recent advances utilize CRISPR technology and oligonucleotide-based therapy to modify gene expression. These approaches may be pivotal for developing novel therapeutic approaches aiming at interfering with oncogenic lncRNAs [ 110 ].…”

Effects of the lncRNA ENST00000623984 on colon cancer and the biological characteristics of colon cancer cells

“…Dysregulation of lncRNAs is involved in cellular growth advantage that may lead to progressive and uncontrolled tumor growth. [21][22][23][24][25] Knockdown of lncRNA ENST00000623984 showed an anticancer effect, in which cell viability, cell proliferation rate, and invasion and migration abilities were decreased. Anti-ENST00000623984 might be a potential treatment for colorectal cancer.…”