Expression Alteration and Function of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Liver Cancer

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is recognized as one of the most aggressive and lethal forms of cancer, significantly contributing to global cancer mortality. Its high mortality rate is largely attributed to late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. HCC predominantly arises in patients with chronic liver diseases, particularly cirrhosis, which is present in approximately ۸۰-۹۰% of cases. The increasing incidence of HCC is alarming, with projections suggesting that over one million new cases will emerge annually by ۲۰۲۵. This rise is particularly notable in regions with high prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses, alongside the growing impact of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) related to metabolic syndrome. A critical area of ongoing research is the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathogenesis of HCC. LncRNAs are a novel class of RNA molecules that do not code for proteins but are involved in regulating gene expression and protein function. Dysregulation of lncRNAs has been linked to various liver disorders, including HCC, highlighting their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for therapeutic intervention.Recent studies have elucidated the mechanisms by which lncRNAs influence HCC progression, including their interactions with chromatin, RNAs, and proteins at epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional levels. These interactions can lead to alterations in cellular pathways that promote tumor growth and metastasis. For instance, certain lncRNAs have been shown to modulate the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, thereby contributing to the malignant transformation of hepatocytes. The clinical implications of understanding lncRNA signaling pathways are profound. By identifying specific lncRNAs involved in HCC, researchers hope to develop novel diagnostic tools that could facilitate earlier detection of the disease. Furthermore, targeting lncRNAs may offer new therapeutic strategies that could complement existing treatments, such as surgical resection, liver transplantation, and systemic therapies. In conclusion, the exploration of lncRNAs in the context of HCC represents a promising frontier in cancer research. As our understanding of these molecules deepens, it may pave the way for innovative approaches to diagnose and treat HCC, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Continued research in this area is essential to unravel the complexities of lncRNA functions and their potential applications in clinical practice, thereby addressing the urgent need for more effective strategies against this formidable malignancy.

کلیدواژه ها:

Hepatocellular carcinoma ، LncRNA ، Biomarkers