IJMS, Vol. 26, Pages 4821: A Comprehensive Review of Long Non-Coding RNAs in the Cancer–Immunity Cycle: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms26104821

Authors:
Mario Perez-Medina
Jesus J. Benito-Lopez
Dolores Aguilar-Cazares
Jose S. Lopez-Gonzalez

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of the dynamic interplay between cancer progression and immune responses. This review explored their influence on key processes of the cancer–immunity cycle, such as immune cell differentiation, antigen presentation, and tumor immunogenicity. By modulating tumor escape from the immune response, therapeutic resistance, and tumor–stroma interactions, lncRNAs actively shape the tumor microenvironment. Due to their growing knowledge in the area of immune suppression, directly intervening in the induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs), M2 macrophages, and regulating immune checkpoint pathways such as PD-L1, CTLA-4, and others, lncRNAs can be considered promising therapeutic targets. Advances in single-cell technologies and immunotherapy have significantly expanded our understanding of lncRNA-driven regulatory networks, paving the way for novel precision medicine approaches. Ultimately, we discussed how targeting lncRNAs could enhance cancer immunotherapy, offering new avenues for biomarker discovery and therapeutic intervention.

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Mario Perez-Medina www.mdpi.com