Long noncoding RNAs: fresh perspectives into the RNA world

• lncRNAs provide additional layers of gene regulatory control.
• Emerging technologies will allow biological function of lncRNAs to be elucidated more efficiently.
• lncRNAs can be useful diagnostic markers or therapeutic tools for diseases.

Large-scale mapping of transcriptomes has revealed significant levels of transcriptional activity within both unannotated and annotated regions of the genome. Interestingly, many of the novel transcripts demonstrate tissue-specific expression and some level of sequence conservation across species, but most have low protein-coding potential. Here, we describe progress in identifying and characterizing long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and review how these transcripts interact with other biological molecules to regulate diverse cellular processes. We also preview emerging techniques that will help advance the discovery and characterization of novel transcripts. Finally, we discuss the role of lncRNAs in disease and therapeutics.