1. Figure 4 Diverse molecular mechanisms of long non-coding RNAs
Figure 4 | Diverse molecular mechanisms of long non-coding RNAs. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are functionally heterogeneous transcripts that can act through diverse molecular mechanisms. On the basis of recent studies, we have segregated their modes of action into four categories. a | Guide lncRNAs bind to proteins such as epigenetic regulatory complexes and transcription factors and direct their localization to specific sites. b | Decoy lncRNAs bind and sequester proteins (for example, transcription factors) or RNA (for example, miRNAs). Some lncRNAs can bind to transcription factor binding sites on the genome to block the action of transcription factors. c | Scaffold lncRNAs serve as a central platform to assemble with different molecular components such as proteins and RNAs and facilitate their intermolecular interactions. Some lncRNAs have also been shown to assemble with mRNAs to protect them from microRNA (miRNA) action and increase their stability. d | Signal lncRNAs are expressed in a tissue-specific and stage-specific manner. Their expression levels faithfully reflect the chromatin states of the regulatory elements on the genome in space and time. eRNA, enhancer RNA; HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma.
Wong, C.-M. et al. (2018) Non-coding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: molecular functions and pathological implications
Nat. Rev. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. doi: /nrgastro