Long non-coding RNAs as regulators of Wnt/β catenin pathway

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of transcripts with sizes larger than 200 nucleotides and without any known corresponding proteins. These transcripts are implicated in the pathogenesis of several human disorders including malignancies through modulation of expression of several genes and signaling pathways. The advent of anti-cancer treatment strategies that target specific signaling pathways necessitate assessment of regulatory mechanisms of signaling pathway whose dysregulation might lead to resistance to such specific treatments. The Wnt/beta catenin pathway is a pivotal pathway in the carcinogenesis and embryonic development. Its critical roles in stem cell renewal have potentiated it as a target of treatment modalities in cancer patients. In the current study, we have identified lncRNAs which can alter expression of certain components of Wnt/beta catenin pathway. These lncRNAs might be regarded as diagnostic markers in cancers or alter the response of patients to targeted therapies.