Long noncoding RNAs in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis: state-of-the-art and perspectives in diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) significantly impacts global health. Despite considerable research, its pathophysiology remains partially unclear. In addition, selective serum biomarkers of disease diagnosis and progression are missing. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a heterogeneous group of ncRNAs with crucial roles in biological processes underlying the pathophysiology of different human diseases. Recent studies have shown that lncRNA could be associated with the genesis and progression of NAFLD towards the most severe forms. Although the field is still in its infancy, it is tempting to speculate that these transcripts could be used as both diagnostic and therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize recent findings on lncRNAs in the complex research field of NAFLD.