LncRNA-encoded peptides: unveiling their significance in cardiovascular physiology and pathology - current research insights.

Abstract

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are RNA transcripts exceeding 200 nucleotides, were believed to lack any protein-coding capacity. But advancements in -omics technology have revealed that some lncRNAs have small open reading frames (sORFs) that can be translated by ribosomes to encode peptides, some of which have important biological functions. These encoded peptides subserve important biological functions by interacting with their targets to modulate transcriptional or signaling axes, thereby enhancing or suppressing CVD occurrence and progression. In this review, we summarize what is known about the research strategy of lncRNA-encoded peptides, mainly comprising predictive websites/tools and experimental methods that have been widely used for prediction, identification, and validation. More importantly, we have compiled a list of lncRNA- encoded peptides, with a focus on those that play significant roles in cardiovascular physiology and pathology, including RNO-sORF6/RNO-sORF7/RNO-sORF8, DOWRF, and NLN etc. Additionally, we have outlined the functions and mechanisms of these peptides in cardiovascular physiology and pathology, such as cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, myocardial contraction, myocardial infarction and vascular remodeling. Finally, an overview of the existing challenges and potential future developments in the realm of lncRNA-encoded peptides was provided, with consideration given to prospective avenues for further research. Given that many lncRNA encoded peptides have not been functionally annotated yet, their application in CVD diagnosis and treatment still requires further research.