lncRNAs at the interplay between neurodegeneration and cancer: a role for MINCR

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of gene expression and cellular processes, with their dysregulation implicated in both neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Cancer and neurodegenerative disorders represent major health burdens worldwide. While seemingly distinct in nature, accumulating evidence suggests that lncRNAs play important roles in the pathogenesis of both conditions. In neurodegenerative diseases, altered lncRNA expression and dysfunction have been associated with neuronal cell death, neuroinflammation, protein misfolding, and impaired cellular functions crucial for neuronal survival. Additionally, lncRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and mitochondrial function. In cancer, dysregulated lncRNA expression contributes to tumorigenesis, tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. These lncRNAs can function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors by modulating gene expression, chromatin remodeling, and post-transcriptional processes. Interestingly, certain lncRNAs demonstrate dual roles, being involved in both cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. For instance, MALAT1 and HOTAIR, well-studied lncRNAs, have been found to be dysregulated in various cancer types, promoting tumor growth and metastasis, while also being implicated in neurodegenerative processes such as neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. These dual-function lncRNAs highlight the interconnectedness between cancer and neurodegenerative diseases and underscore the need for further investigation into their intricate mechanisms of action. In this context, we provide the example of the MYC-induced Long non-Coding RNA (MINCR), a lncRNA described as up-regulated in various cancers and downregulated in the blood and spinal cord of sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis patients. Understanding the complex interplay between lncRNAs and the molecular pathways underlying cancer and neurodegenerative diseases is crucial for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. LncRNAs hold great promise as potential biomarkers for disease detection, prognosis, and therapeutic response prediction. Furthermore, targeted modulation of dysregulated lncRNAs may provide new avenues for therapeutic interventions in both cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.