Chapter 5 - Long Noncoding RNAs in the Immune Response

Abstract

It has long been appreciated that differences in protein-coding genes cannot account for the evolutionary complexity observed across species. Large-scale RNA-sequencing studies have uncovered thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that have now been implicated in the regulation of gene expression in many biological contexts. The immune system is critical for defense against pathogens; however, it needs to be tightly regulated to prevent excess inflammation that can lead to diseases, such as autoimmunity. This chapter summarize the role of lncRNAs in the regulation of the immune system. The major pathways and cell types involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses are highlighted, and numerous examples are provided to highlight the broad spectrum of mechanisms used by lncRNAs to regulate the immune response. The known roles of lncRNAs in epigenetic gene regulation are discussed, and their contribution to autoimmune diseases are examined. A general guide and discussion on the tools used to study lncRNA biology are also provided. Finally, potential strategies for targeting lncRNAs for the therapeutic treatment of autoimmune diseases are described.