Roles of lncRNAs in NF-κB-Mediated Macrophage Inflammation and Their Implications in the Pathogenesis of Human Diseases

Abstract

Over the past century, molecular biology’s focus has transitioned from proteins to DNA, and now to RNA. Once considered merely a genetic information carrier, RNA is now recognized as both a vital element in early cellular life and a regulator in complex organisms. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are over 200 bases long but do not code for proteins, play roles in gene expression regulation and signal transduction by inducing epigenetic changes or interacting with various proteins and RNAs. These interactions exhibit a range of functions in various cell types, including macrophages. Notably, some macrophage lncRNAs influence the activation of NF-κB, a crucial transcription factor governing immune and inflammatory responses. Macrophage NF-κB is instrumental in the progression of various pathological conditions including sepsis, atherosclerosis, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and hypersensitivity. It orchestrates gene expression related to immune responses, inflammation, cell survival, and proliferation. Consequently, its malfunction is a key contributor to the onset and development of these diseases. This review aims to summarize the function of lncRNAs in regulating NF-κB activity in macrophage activation and inflammation, with a particular emphasis on their relevance to human diseases and their potential as therapeutic targets. The insights gained from studies on macrophage lncRNAs, as discussed in this review, could provide valuable knowledge for the development of treatments for various pathological conditions involving macrophages.

LINC01270 Regulates the NF-κB-Mediated Pro-inflammatory Response via the miR-326/LDOC1 Axis in THP-1 Cells

“…Inflammation is a complex biological process orchestrated by the immune system that allows the body to withstand harmful stimuli such as pathogens and virulence factors [1]. A multitude of cellular and molecular mechanisms are involved in regulating inflammation, among which the transcription factor NF-B plays a central role [2]. NF-B occupies a key position in the regulation of multiple facets of the inflammatory response.…”

“…2 several pathological processes through their modulation of NF-κB activity [2]. For example, lncRNA-cox2 promotes inflammasome sensor expression by facilitating NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and transcription [7].…”