Molecular Interplay Between Non-Coding RNAs and Connexins and Its Possible Role in Cancer
Journal
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
ISSN
1422-0067
Date Issued
2025-03-12
Author(s)
Type
journal-article
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are sequences that do not encode for proteins and play key roles in different cellular processes, including cell proliferation and differentiation. On the other hand, connexins (Cxs) are transmembrane proteins that principally allow intercellular communication. In pathological conditions such as cancer, there is a deregulation in the expression and/or function of ncRNAs and Cxs, which in turn leads to an enhancement in the aggressive phenotype, such as a greater proliferative and invasive capacity. This suggests a plausible interplay between ncRNAs and Cxs. Based on that, this review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding this relationship and to analyze how it may influence the development of aggressive traits in cancer cells and the clinicopathological features of cancer patients. Finally, we discuss the potential of ncRNAs and Cxs as promising clinical biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic targeting.
Subjects
animals
;
biomarkers
;
tumor
;
cell communication
;
connexins
;
gene expression regulation
;
neoplastic
;
humans
;
neoplasms
;
rna
;
untranslated
;
gap junction protein
;
tumor marker
;
untranslated rna
;
animal
;
cell communication
;
gene expression regulation
;
genetics
;
human
;
metabolism
;
neoplasm
;
pathology
;
cancer
;
connexins
;
non-coding rnas