Non-coding RNAs, a real Next-Gen Class of Biomarkers?
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the concept of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has changed radically, moving from “junk/black matter” to crucial regulatory molecules controlling two-third of the human transcriptional output. This change of perspective has been possible due to the evolution of high-throughput technologies together with improvements in the bioinformatics field, leading to the discovery that a large portion of the human genome is transcribed in functional ncRNAs. Eukaryotic cells express a greater amount of ncRNAs compared to protein-coding mRNAs, supporting the idea that ncRNAs are far away to be inert molecules. In fact, ncRNAs can switch off/reduce the expression of multiple targets simultaneously, affecting entire signaling pathways within the cells. Thus, it is easy to imagine the great power these macromolecules have in controlling multiple biological processes. Accordingly, advances in the understanding of the molecular role of ncRNAs in both physiological and pathological conditions have significantly contributed to the identification of alternative molecular pathways that have started to influence the planning of secondary prevention strategies and the selection of new therapeutic modalities for human diseases. By reviewing recent literature on this topic, this special issue "Clinical Utility of ncRNAs, a Next-Gen Class of Biomarkers" further supports the pivotal role of ncRNAs in regulating both physiological and pathological mechanism and the significant ncRNAs…
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