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Uncovering the role of genomic “dark matter” in human disease
Lance Martin, Howard Y. Chang
Lance Martin, Howard Y. Chang
Published May 1, 2012
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2012;122(5):1589-1595. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI60020.
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Science in Medicine

Uncovering the role of genomic “dark matter” in human disease

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Abstract

The human genome encodes thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Although most remain functionally uncharacterized biological “dark matter,” lncRNAs have garnered considerable attention for their diverse roles in human biology, including developmental programs and tumor suppressor gene networks. As the number of lncRNAs associated with human disease grows, ongoing research efforts are focusing on their regulatory mechanisms. New technologies that enable enumeration of lncRNA interaction partners and determination of lncRNA structure are well positioned to drive deeper understanding of their functions and involvement in pathogenesis. In turn, lncRNAs may become targets for therapeutic intervention or new tools for biotechnology.

Authors

Lance Martin, Howard Y. Chang

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Figure 1

Models for lncRNA-mediated epigenetic, transcriptional, and posttranscriptional regulation.

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Models for lncRNA-mediated epigenetic, transcriptional, and posttranscri...
(A) lncRNAs can recruit chromatin-remodeling components to specific genomic loci, reprogramming the state of chromatin in order to silence or activate transcription. (B) lncRNAs housed within nuclear subcompartments can bind promoter-associated proteins, recruiting specific genomic loci to the subcompartment and driving transcription of the localized genes. (C) lncRNAs can act as ceRNAs, which harbor miRNA binding sites and therefore reduce miRNA levels available for targeting mRNAs. In all cases, lncRNAs are shown in blue.

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ISSN: 0021-9738 (print), 1558-8238 (online)

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