Roles for noncoding RNAs in cell-fate determination and regeneration

Abstract

Cellular fate is determined by transcriptional networks and epigenetic states. In addition to protein factors, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), particularly microRNAs and long ncRNAs, are able to remodel transcriptional circuits and reshape epigenetic landscapes. Here we draw upon recent findings to discuss the emerging roles of these ncRNAs in cellular reprogramming, transdifferentiation and organ regeneration.