From Dark Matter to Center Stage: The Impact of circRNAs and lncRNAs on Neuronal Health and Disease

Dear Colleagues,

The growing field of neuroscience is revealing a remarkable complexity in the regulatory landscape of gene expression governing neuronal development, function, and pathology. Long considered 'dark matter' of the transcriptome, non-coding RNAs, particularly circular RNAs (circRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), are emerging as pivotal elements in the molecular tapestry of neurobiology. These non-coding RNAs offer a compelling layer of post-transcriptional regulation, implicating them in a diverse array of cellular activities—ranging from synaptic plasticity to cellular homeostasis. Notably, an increasing body of evidence points towards their critical involvement in neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders, making them compelling targets for therapeutic intervention.

This Special Issue, titled "From Dark Matter to Center Stage: The Impact of circRNAs and lncRNAs on Neuronal Health and Disease" invites contributions in the form of original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and thought-provoking perspectives that seek to elucidate the roles and underlying mechanisms of circRNAs and lncRNAs in neuronal pathophysiology. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the identification of novel circRNA and lncRNA species in neural tissues, exploration of their regulatory roles in neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity, and insights into their involvement in various neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders. We are equally interested in manuscripts that explore advanced methodologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, single cell ATAC-Seq, and other Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques in the context of these non-coding RNAs. Additionally, studies that examine the translational potential of circRNAs and lncRNAs as biomarkers, prognostic indicators, or therapeutic agents are highly encouraged. Through this Special Issue, we aim to assemble a rich tapestry of interdisciplinary research that not only advances our understanding of the complex roles of circRNAs and lncRNAs but also paves the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

We look forward to your insightful contributions to this cutting-edge topic, and we hope that this Special Issue serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the scientific community.

Dr. Lalit Kaurani
Guest Editor

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• circular RNAs (circRNAs)
• long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)
• neurogenesis
• neurological disorders
• neurodegenerative diseases
• biomarkers
• therapeutic strategies