The role and function of lncRNA in ageing-associated liver diseases

RNA Biol. 2025 Dec;22(1):1-8. doi: 10.1080/15476286.2024.2440678. Epub 2024 Dec 19.

Abstract

Liver diseases are a significant global health issue, characterized by elevated levels of disorder and death. The substantial impact of ageing on liver diseases and their prognosis is evident. Multiple processes are involved in the ageing process, which ultimately leads to functional deterioration of this organ. The process of liver ageing not only renders the liver more susceptible to diseases but also compromises the integrity of other organs due to the liver's critical function in metabolism regulation. A growing body of research suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in the majority of pathophysiological pathways. They regulate gene expression through a variety of interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs), messenger RNAs (mRNAs), DNA, or proteins. LncRNAs exert a major influence on the progression of age-related liver diseases through the regulation of cell proliferation, necrosis, apoptosis, senescence, and metabolic reprogramming. A concise overview of the current understanding of lncRNAs and their potential impact on the development of age-related liver diseases will be provided in this mini-review.

Keywords: Liver diseases; ageing; liver ageing; lncRNAs; ncRNAs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging* / genetics
  • Animals
  • Apoptosis / genetics
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Cellular Senescence / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver Diseases* / genetics
  • Liver Diseases* / metabolism
  • Liver Diseases* / pathology
  • RNA, Long Noncoding* / genetics
  • RNA, Long Noncoding* / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA, Long Noncoding