Involvement of IncRNAs in the regulation of aerobic glycolysis in hepatocellular carcinoma: Main functions, regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic implications (Review)

• Published in: Oncology reports Vol. 51; no. 6; p. 1
• Main Authors: Huang, Qiongqing, Liang, Zhengui, Huang, Qiqi, Li, Xueyu, Xia, Jingjing, Huang, Lining, Huang, Lin Bing, Ou, Chao
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Spandidos Publications 01.06.2024
• Subjects: Development and progression; Dextrose; Enzymes; Glucose; Glucose metabolism; Health aspects; Hepatoma; Lactic acid; China
• ISSN: 1021-335X
• DOI: 10.3892/or.2024.8743

Even under aerobic conditions, tumor cells can reprogram their metabolism to preferentially metabolize glucose into lactic acid. This abnormal metabolic pattern, known as the 'Warburg' effect or aerobic glycolysis, promotes cancer progression. Long non-coding RNAs (IncRNAs) are RNAs that are >200 nucleotides in length and do not have protein-coding capabilities. However, these RNAs play a key role in tumor development. There is increasing evidence to indicate that IncRNAs regulate glucose metabolism in tumor cells by affecting metabolic enzymes and some signaling pathways, thereby regulating the occurrence and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, it is crucial to understand which IncRNAs play a regulatory role in HCC glycolysis and to determine the related molecular mechanisms. The present review summarized and discussed the functions of IncRNAs, focusing on the regulatory mechanisms of IncRNAs in the process of glycolysis in HCC. In addition, the present review suggests the importance of IncRNAs as future therapeutic targets for antitumor cell metabolism. Key words: long non-coding RNAs, Warburg effect, hepatocellular carcinoma, tumongenesis, enzyme