Competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) are transcripts that can regulate each other at post-transcription level by competing for shared miRNAs. CeRNA networks link the function of protein-coding mRNAs with that of non-coding RNAs such as microRNA, long non-coding RNA, pseudogenic RNA and circular RNA. Given that any transcripts harbouring miRNA response element can theoretically function as ceRNAs, they may represent a widespread form of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in both physiology and pathology. CeRNA activity is influenced by multiple factors such as the abundance and subcellular localisation of ceRNA components, binding affinity of miRNAs to their sponges, RNA editing, RNA secondary structures and RNA-binding proteins. Aberrations in these factors may deregulate ceRNA networks and thus lead to human diseases including cancer. In this review, we introduce the mechanisms and molecular bases of ceRNA networks, discuss their roles in the pathogenesis of cancer as well as methods of predicting and validating ceRNA interplay. At last, we discuss the limitations of current ceRNA theory, propose possible directions and envision the possibilities of ceRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
[1]Zhengzhou Univ, Affiliated Hosp 1, Dept Oncol, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, Peoples R China.
[2]Nanjing Med Univ, Huaian Peoples Hosp 1, Dept Clin Oncol, Huaian, Peoples R China.
[3]Peking Union Med Coll Hosp, Peking Union Med Coll, Dept Orthoped Surg, Beijing, Peoples R China.
[4]Chinese Acad Med Sci, Beijing 100730, Peoples R China.
[5]Tongji Univ, Shanghai East Hosp, Dept Gastroenterol, Sch Med, Shanghai 200092, Peoples R China.
[6]Xuzhou Med Coll, Dept Neurol, Affiliated Huaian Hosp, Huaian, Peoples R China.
[7]Second Peoples Hosp Huaian, Huaian, Peoples R China.
[8]Southern Med Univ, Nanfang Hosp, Dept Gen Surg, Guangzhou, Guangdong, Peoples R China.
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