SnoRNAs and the emerging class of sdRNAs: Multifaceted players in oncogenesis

Abstract

Small nucleolar RNAs are generally involved in the modification of target ribosomal RNAs. Other possible functions recently emerged with the discovery of the novel class of snoRNA-derived RNAs or sdRNAs. Since then, additional data has revealed the involvement of both snoRNAs and sdRNAs in tumorigenesis. After briefly introducing snoRNA families and functions, this mini-review summarises recently acquired knowledge on snoRNA-related mechanisms associated with cancer. Despite the rapid increase in the number of studies, exactly how snoRNAs lead to cancer remains unclear. However, exciting new research is paving the way for future diagnostic or therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Cancer; Small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs); Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs); Sno-derived RNAs (sdRNAs); microRNAs (miRNAs); p53.