The functions of a large number of non-coding genes in human
DNA have yet to be accurately identified.
Long non-coding RNA (
lncRNA) measuring 10 kb or less in length regulates transcription or post-transcriptional events. The lncRNAs have attracted increased attention of researchers in recent years. In this review, we summarize the recently published lncRNAs which are known to influence
cancer development and progression. We also discuss recent studies investigating
tumor-specific
lncRNA expression. These lncRNAs provide very useful information that allows prediction of the degree of
malignancy and a survival rate in
cancer patients as clinically relevant
biomarkers. Because symptoms and progression of
cancer differ from onset to death between males and females, it is important to consider the gender of the patient when diagnosing
cancer and predicting the progression. Considering the importance of gender difference, we also examine the influence of
sex hormones involved in the expression and regulation of lncRNAs as
biomarkers. Many of the lncRNAs examined in this review have been studied in
cancers occurring in the female or male reproductive organs, but the association between lncRNAs and
sex hormones has also been reported in common organs such as the lung, renal and colon. Although lncRNAs have not yet been widely used as definitive
cancer indicators, recent studies have demonstrated the potential role of lncRNAs as
biomarkers and therapeutic targets reflecting sex-specificity in a number of different
cancers.