Long Noncoding RNA: Recent Updates in Atherosclerosis

Long noncoding RNAs belong to a class of noncoding RNAs longer than 200 nucleotides with the epigenetic regulation potential. As a novel molecular regulator, IncRNAs are often dysregulated in various pathological conditions and display multiple functions in a wide range of biological processes. Given that recent studies have indicated that IncRNAs are involved in atherosclerosis-related smooth muscle cell, endothelial cell, macrophage and lipid metabolism regulation, it is pertinent to understand the potential function of IncRNAs in atherosclerosis development. This review will highlight the recent updates of IncRNAs in atherogenesis and also discuss their potential roles as novel therapeutic targets.