Long non-coding RNAs as key regulators of cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Protein-coding genes account for less than 2% of the whole genome. However, the advances in RNA sequencing and genome-wide analysis have demonstrated that most of the genome is capable of being transcribed. Moreover, recent studies have suggested that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical regulators of gene expression and epigenesis in both physiological and disease states. Several lncRNAs are functionally involved in cardiovascular diseases and may be potential therapeutic targets. Here, we review the current strategies for the discovery of functional lncRNAs and recently discovered lncRNAs in the cardiovascular field, focusing on cardiac development, hypertrophy, heart failure, and atherosclerosis. We also discuss the therapeutic potentials of synthetic RNAs to modulate these lncRNAs and future directions in this research field.