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The Biology of Long Non-Coding RNA

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MicroRNAs and Other Non-Coding RNAs in Inflammation

Part of the book series: Progress in Inflammation Research ((PIR))

Abstract

The majority of human transcribed loci do not encode protein. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are an emerging class of non-coding RNA that are implicated in the regulation of gene expression at almost every level. Although their mechanisms of action are relatively unknown, general mechanistic themes are emerging. They have the ability to affect gene expression through a spectrum of interactions with RNA, proteins and possibly DNA. With their capacity to act both in cis and in trans, they can guide epigenetic-modifier complexes or transcription factors to particular genomic sites. These lncRNAs have been implicated in a variety of cellular processes, including chromatin modification, genomic imprinting and cell cycle regulation. This chapter examines their biology, conservation, function and roles in disease as well as various approaches to their characterisation.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    This highlights the inadequacies of classification based on genomic context, as XIST is also characterised as a lincRNA.

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  1. Respiratory Research, Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland

    Paul J. McKiernan

  2. Respiratory Research, Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland

    Catherine M. Greene

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    Catherine M. Greene

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McKiernan, P.J., Greene, C.M. (2015). The Biology of Long Non-Coding RNA. In: Greene, C. (eds) MicroRNAs and Other Non-Coding RNAs in Inflammation. Progress in Inflammation Research. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-13689-9_2

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