Emerging role of exosomal long non-coding RNAs in lung cancer

Mol Biol Rep. 2022 Jun;49(6):4989-4997. doi: 10.1007/s11033-022-07169-8. Epub 2022 Jan 27.

Abstract

Background: Lung cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Also, it is the leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in men. Despite advances in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, novel approaches are strongly needed to promote early diagnosis and effective treatment of lung cancer. Presently, accumulating data reveal that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are differentially enriched in exosomes and mediate multiple biological processes in lung cancer, suggesting the potential application of exosomal lncRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Conclusion: In this review, we described the emerging roles of lncRNAs specifically sorted into exosomes in lung cancer. We discussed the current knowledge of the exosomal lncRNA sorting mechanism and highlighted opportunities for exosome-derived lncRNAs as biomarkers in clinical practice. In particular, we systematically summarized the biological functions of exosomal lncRNAs in lung cancer.

Keywords: Biomarker; Exosome; Lung cancer; Sorting mechanism; lncRNA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Exosomes* / genetics
  • Exosomes* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Lung Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Male
  • RNA, Long Noncoding* / genetics

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • RNA, Long Noncoding