Emerging roles of circular RNAs in systemic lupus erythematosus

• Published in: Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids Vol. 24; pp. 212 - 222
• Main Authors: Wang, Xin, Ma, Rui, Shi, Weimin, Wu, Zhouwei, Shi, Yuling
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 04.06.2021; American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy; Elsevier
• Subjects: circular RNA; expression; function; mechanism; Review; systemic lupus erythematosus; systemic lupus erythematosus; expression; mechanism; circular RNA; function
• ISSN: 2162-2531; 2162-2531
• DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.02.028

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs with covalently closed single-stranded structures lacking 5′–3′ polarity and a polyadenine tail. Over recent years, a growing body of studies have been conducted to explore the roles of circRNAs in human diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of autoantibodies and excessive inflammation, which impact multiple organs. Recent advances have begun to shed light on the roles of circRNAs in SLE, providing fresh insights into the pathogenesis of SLE and the latent capacity for translation into clinical applications. Here, we briefly introduce these “star molecules” and summarize their roles in SLE. In addition, we outline the limitations of the current studies and raise prospects for future research. [Display omitted] This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of circRNA biology, with a particular emphasis on their roles and future perspectives in SLE. The research ideas about the expression, transmission, function, and mechanism of circRNAs are not only suitable for SLE but also generally suitable for other autoimmune diseases.