Circular RNAs (
circRNAs) are a large class of noncoding RNAs that are emerging as critical regulators of various cellular processes that are involved in the physiopathological mechanism of many human diseases, such as
cardiovascular disease,
atherosclerosis,
diabetes mellitus, and
carcinogenesis. Autophagy is a conserved and catabolic cellular process that degrades unfolded, misfolded, or damaged
protein aggregates or organelles to maintain cellular homeostasis under physiological and pathological conditions. Increasing evidence has shown a link between
circRNAs and autophagy that is closely related to the occurrence and development of human diseases, including
cancer. In this review, we highlight recent advances in understanding the functions and mechanisms of
circRNAs in the regulation of autophagy in
cancer. These autophagy-related
circRNAs contribute to
cancer development and progression in various types of human
cancer by activating or inhibiting autophagy. Cumulative research on the relationship between
circRNAs and autophagy regulation provides critical insight into the essential role that
circRNAs play in
carcinogenesis and suggests new targets for
tumor therapy.