Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1A-antisense: Review of its role in the carcinogenesis

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1A-antisense (HNF1A-AS) is an RNA gene classified as a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). This gene is located on 12q24.31 and produces at least seven transcripts. This lncRNA contributes in the pathogenesis of cancer via HNF1A-dependent and -independent routes. Moreover, the role of this lncRNA in this process is context-dependent. The bulk of evidence from cell line, in vivo and clinical studies propose HNF1A-AS as an oncogenic lncRNA. However, in hepatic cancer, gastric cancer and laryngeal cancer, opposite results have been reported. In the current review, we explain the impact of HNF1A-AS in the pathoetiology of cancers. In order to appraise the importance of available evidence on this topic, we have classified evidence to preclinical models (cell liens and animal models) and investigations in tissues obtained from human subjects.