An Overview of Long Non-Coding (lnc)RNAs in Neuroblastoma

Abstract

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a heterogeneous developmental tumor occurring in childhood, which arises from the embryonic sympathoadrenal cells of the neural crest. Although the recent progress that has been done on this tumor, the mechanisms involved in NB are still partially unknown. Despite some genetic aberrations having been identified, the sporadic cases represent the majority. Due to its wide heterogeneity in clinical behavior and etiology, NB represents a challenge in terms of prevention and treatment. Since a definitive therapy is lacking so far, there is an urgent necessity to unveil the molecular mechanisms behind NB onset and progression to develop new therapeutic approaches. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of RNAs longer than 200 nucleotides. Whether lncRNAs are destined to become a protein or not, they exert multiple biological functions such as regulating gene expression and functions. In recent decades, different research has highlighted the possible role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer. Moreover, lncRNAs may represent potential markers or targets for diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This mini-review aimed to briefly summarize the most recent findings on the involvement of some lncRNAs in NB disease by focusing on their mechanisms of action and possible role in unveiling NB onset and progression.