The implication of lncRNAs in the regulation of inflammation.

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators of immune and inflammatory responses. Recent studies have highlighted the involvement of lncRNA in several inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT, where lncRNAs control processes like cytokine expression, transcription factor activation, nuclear translocation, and chromatin remodeling. They modulate the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, and T lymphocytes, by interacting with microRNAs, transcription factors, signaling proteins, and chromatin modifiers. They also affect the inflammatory response of non-immune cells, such as epithelial and endothelial cells. These multifaceted roles position lncRNAs as master regulators of inflammation, with their dysregulation contributing to the development and progression of various inflammatory diseases. Understanding their context-specific functions opens new avenues for therapeutic intervention and biomarker development.