Circular RNAs as emerging regulators of mitochondrial function and disease

Abstract

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of covalently closed, non-coding RNAs that have emerged as regulators of gene expression and cellular homeostasis. Accumulating evidence shows that circRNAs are involved in the regulation of mitochondrial function, energy metabolism, and stress responses. Dysregulation of circRNAs has been linked to a wide range of mitochondrial-associated diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. This review summarizes current knowledge on mitochondrial-related circRNAs, their biogenesis, molecular mechanisms, and pathophysiological roles, with a focus on their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.