Long antisense non-coding RNAs and their role in transcription and oncogenesis

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs are estimated to qualitatively represent ∼98% of expressed transcripts in human cells, a large proportion of which is antisense to protein-coding and non-coding transcripts. Here we review evidence from several experimental systems that suggests long antisense non-coding RNAs are involved in the transcriptional regulation of gene expression by altering epigenetic states at both adjacent and distal loci. We also review the initial evidence for a role of endogenous long antisense non-coding RNAs in oncogenic cellular transformation. © 2010 Landes Bioscience.