长链非编码RNA对基因表达的调控

Long noncoding RNAs in gene expression control

哺乳动物基因组中的大部分DNA序列在动物生长的不同阶段被转录成长链非编码RNA(long noncoding RNA,lncRNA)。它们对基因表达的调控作用已成为生命科学研究的热点。目前已发现lncRNA有多种基因调控方式:在细胞核中顺式或反式地调控基因转录,作为蛋白诱饵进行间接调控;在细胞质中作用于mRNA影响其稳定性及翻译过程,作为竞争性内源RNA参与microRNA调控,与转录因子结合影响其功能发挥等。LncRNAs在转录水平及转录后水平对基因表达的调控作用对于机体的发育过程和疾病的发生发展都有重大意义。

Studies have shown that most of the sequence in the mammalian genome is transcribed into long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Their crucial roles in gene regulation are becoming a hotspot in current biomedical research. LncRNAs can control gene activities through multiple mechanisms such as: 1) direct or indirect regulation of gene expression via cis-/trans-action or function as protein baits in the nucleus; 2) affecting the stability and the translational process of mRNA; 3) functioning as competitors to regulation of microRNA; 4) binding to transcription factors. Recent studies have highlighted the significance of lncRNAs in development and diseases, and their potentials in future clinical application.