Circular RNA and Its Roles in the Occurrence, Development, Diagnosis of Cancer

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding single-stranded covalently closed circular RNA, mainly produced by reverse splicing of exons of precursor mRNAs (pre-mRNAs). The characteristics of high abundance, strong specificity, and good stability of circRNAs have been discovered. A large number of studies have reported its various functions and mechanisms in biological events, such as the occurrence and development of cancer. In this review, we focus on the classification, characterization, biogenesis, functions of circRNAs, and the latest advances in cancer research. The development of circRNAs as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis and treatment also provides new ideas for studying circRNAs research.

Automated summary

This review provides a detailed overview of the classification, characteristics, biogenesis, functions, and latest advances in cancer research of circular RNAs (circRNAs). The unique features of circRNAs, such as their high abundance, strong specificity, and good stability, have been identified, and their various functions and mechanisms in biological events, including cancer occurrence and development, have been extensively studied. The development of circRNAs as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis and treatment also opens up new avenues for circRNA research.