Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as important regulators of numerous biological processes, especially in cancer development. Aberrantly expressed and specifically located in tumor cells, they exert distinct functions in different cancers via regulating multiple downstream targets such as chromatins, RNAs, and proteins. Differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (DANCR) is a cytoplasmic lncRNA that generally works as a tumor promoter. Mechanically, DANCR promotes the functions of vital components in the oncogene network by sponging their corresponding microRNAs or by interacting with various regulating proteins. DANCR's distinct expression in tumor cells and collective involvement in pro-tumor pathways make it a promising therapeutic target for broad cancer treatment. Herein, we summarize the functions and molecular mechanism of DANCR in human cancers. Furthermore, we introduce the use of CRISPR/Cas9, antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs as well as viral, lipid, or exosomal vectors for onco-lncRNA targeted treatment. Conclusively, DANCR is a considerable promoter of cancers with a bright prospect in targeted therapy.
Highlights
75% of the human genome can be transcribed into RNAs, yet no more than 2% encodes proteins [1]
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2)-Differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (DANCR) interaction was first discovered in human fetal osteoblastic cell where the Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs)-protein complex inhibited Runt-related transcription factor-2 expression and pursuant osteoblast differentiation [16]
The following two mechanisms of DANCR are discovered in Bladder cancer (BC) cells: DANCR can combine with the miRNA-149 in BC cell cytoplasm, positively regulating the expression of Musashi RNA binding protein 2 (MSI2)
Summary
75% of the human genome can be transcribed into RNAs, yet no more than 2% encodes proteins [1]. It can regulate the progression of numerous cancers by modulating the expression or activity of downstream targets and promoting hallmarks of cancer including cell proliferation, cell motility, tumor angiogenesis, and cell viability. DANCR overexpressed in endometrial carcinoma can alleviate the inhibitory effect of miR-214 on target mRNAs and inhibit cell apoptosis and promote proliferation [20].
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