Posttranscriptional Gene Regulation by Long Noncoding RNA

Eukaryotic cells transcribe a vast number of noncoding RNA species. Among them, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been widely implicated in the regulation of gene transcription. However, examples of posttranscriptional gene regulation by lncRNAs are emerging. Through extended base-pairing, lncRNAs can stabilize or promote the translation of target mRNAs, while partial base-pairing facilitates mRNA decay or inhibits target mRNA translation. In the absence of complementarity, lncRNAs can suppress precursor mRNA splicing and translation by acting as decoys of RNA-binding proteins or microRNAs and can compete for microRNA-mediated inhibition leading to increased expression of the mRNA. Through these regulatory mechanisms, lncRNAs can elicit differentiation, proliferation, and cytoprotective programs, underscoring the rising recognition of lncRNA roles in human disease. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of posttranscriptional gene regulation by lncRNAs identified until now.

Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (212 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► LncRNAs are emerging as key posttranscriptional gene regulatory factors.
► LncRNAs can control splicing by sequestering splicing regulatory proteins.
► LncRNAs can modulate target mRNA turnover via partial or extended complementarity.
► LncRNAs can affect translation by interacting with target mRNAs, recruiting proteins.
► LncRNAs can function by competing or cooperating with microRNAs.