The role of long noncoding RNAs in ischaemic stroke

Ischaemic stroke (IS) is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the world. The consequences of IS manifest as severe and persistent neurological symptoms. The currently used methods for the management of IS are insufficient, partly because of incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms that occur in IS. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that are longer than 200 nucleotides. It has been shown that lncRNAs control many processes: transcription, translation, regulation of gene expression, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and differentiation. There is plenty of evidence that lncRNAs play a direct role in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including IS. LncRNAs are found in the human bodily fluids, such as blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and saliva. The expression profile of these circulating lncRNAs consists of a certain part of the cells, where they are modified and secreted in accordance with the physiological and pathological status of those cells. Due to their various ways of transport from cells into bodily fluids within exosomes or liposomes, lncRNAs are protected from the effect of RNases and remain in a stable form. Because of this, circulating lncRNAs are considered as novel biomarkers, which are of interest in many diseases, including IS. It likely appears that lncRNAs have the potential to be used in the diagnosis, management, and prevention of IS.