Deciphering the Far-Reaching Functions of Non-coding RNA in Colorectal Cancer

Purpose of Review Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the deadliest forms of cancer worldwide, and researchers are continuously striving to discover novel therapeutic targets and treatment methods. Many of the molecular mechanisms central to CRC development and progression have yet to be elucidated. The goal of this review is to highlight the most recent findings and theories behind the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in CRC. Recent Findings Recent work has indicated that ncRNAs, RNA molecules that are not translated into protein, play significant roles in cellular events directly affecting CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and survival. These ncRNAs include specific microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and other types of RNAs. Many of these molecules themselves are oncogenic or tumor suppressive in nature, and some have been suggested to be diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarkers in CRC. NcRNAs can impact gene expression and signal transduction through various mechanisms on epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. Summary Understanding the biological mechanisms governing CRC initiation and propagation may lead to novel therapeutics and biomarkers for treating this deadly disease.