Epigenetic Alterations in DCIS Progression: What Can lncRNAs Teach Us?

Some transcripts that are not translated into proteins can be encoded by the mammalian genome. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that can function as decoys, scaffolds, and enhancer RNAs and can regulate other molecules, including microRNAs. Therefore, it is essential that we obtain a better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs. In cancer, lncRNAs function through several mechanisms, including important biological pathways, and the abnormal expression of lncRNAs contributes to breast cancer (BC) initiation and progression. BC is the most common type of cancer among women worldwide and has a high mortality rate. Genetic and epigenetic alterations that can be regulated by lncRNAs may be related to early events of BC progression. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive BC that is considered an important preinvasive BC early event because it can progress to invasive BC. Therefore, the identification of predictive biomarkers of DCIS-invasive BC progression has become increasingly important in an attempt to optimize the treatment and quality of life of patients. In this context, this review will address the current knowledge about the role of lncRNAs in DCIS and their potential contribution to the progression of DCIS to invasive BC.

Automated summary

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are noncoding transcripts encoded by the mammalian genome, functioning as decoys, scaffolds, and enhancer RNAs. They play a vital role in regulating other molecules, including microRNAs. Abnormal expression of lncRNAs has been implicated in breast cancer (BC) initiation and progression, highlighting the need for a better understanding of lncRNA regulatory mechanisms. Specifically, this review focuses on the role of lncRNAs in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and their potential contribution to the progression of DCIS to invasive BC.