Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs): The Role in Gene Regulation and Human Diseases

Dear Colleagues,

Our Special Issue “Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs): The Role in Gene Regulation and Human Diseases” mainly focus on the following researches:

1. Noncoding RNAs in genomic editing

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play pivotal roles in genomic editing, presenting substantial potential for human health advancements. These RNAs, which do not code for proteins, are integral in regulating gene expression and maintaining genomic stability. The discovery of various types of ncRNAs has revolutionized our understanding of gene regulation. Their ability to target specific genetic sequences makes them powerful tools for precise genome editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9. By leveraging ncRNAs, researchers can develop targeted therapies for genetic disorders, improve the accuracy of gene editing, and reduce off-target effects. This precision is crucial for therapeutic applications, including cancer treatment, genetic disease correction, and regenerative medicine. The ongoing exploration of ncRNAs' roles and mechanisms holds promise for innovative medical interventions and personalized medicine, heralding a new era in human health improvement.

2. Noncoding RNA and epigenetics

Current understanding of the relationship between noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and epigenetic regulation highlights the crucial role ncRNAs play in controlling gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Noncoding RNAs are involved in various epigenetic mechanisms. They influence chromatin structure, DNA methylation, and histone modification, which are key processes in epigenetic regulation. For instance, lncRNAs can recruit chromatin-modifying complexes to specific genomic loci, leading to changes in chromatin accessibility and gene expression. miRNAs can post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression by binding to messenger RNAs and preventing their translation. These interactions ensure that genes are expressed in a cell-type-specific manner and are crucial for development, differentiation, and disease. Understanding the interplay between ncRNAs and epigenetic regulation is essential for unraveling complex biological processes and has significant implications for developing novel therapeutic strategies for various diseases.

3. ncRNAs in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized as critical regulators in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Current knowledge highlights that ncRNAs play essential roles in maintaining stem cell pluripotency, differentiation, and self-renewal. For instance, specific miRNAs are involved in regulating the balance between stem cell renewal and differentiation by targeting key transcription factors and signaling pathways. lncRNAs can modulate chromatin structure and gene expression, thereby influencing stem cell fate decisions. In regenerative medicine, ncRNAs are explored for their potential to enhance tissue repair and regeneration. By modulating ncRNA expression, researchers aim to direct stem cell differentiation towards specific cell types required for tissue regeneration, such as cardiomyocytes for heart repair or neurons for neural regeneration. Additionally, ncRNAs are being studied for their roles in improving the efficiency and safety of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) generation, which is crucial for developing patient-specific cell therapies.

Dr. Liming Chen
Dr. Yuanshan Zhu
Guest Editors

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• ncRNAs
• genomic editing
• epigenetics
• stem cell biology and regenerative medicine