Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Leukemia

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Research on leukemia has often led to novel approaches in clinical practice. Cytogenetical and molecular markers have been introduced in treatment protocols contributing to better stratification of leukemia patients in specific prognostic groups and patient-tailored therapy. However, the next step concerns modern hematology. Omics-profiling of leukemia patients is needed to complete the information of all key players which influence the course of the disease. There is no doubt that regulatory RNAs, among which lncRNAs, belong to those key players. Knowledge of the role of lncRNAs in leukemias is not sufficient and the research in that field needs to be increased. This would enable the design of innovative targeted-therapeutics, thus opening the doors wide for personalized medicine in hematological malignancies. ABSTRACT: Leukemia is a heterogenous group of hematological malignancies categorized in four main types (acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Several cytogenetic and molecular markers have become a part of routine analysis for leukemia patients. These markers have been used in diagnosis, risk-stratification and targeted therapy application. Recent studies have indicated that numerous regulatory RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), have a role in tumor initiation and progression. When it comes to leukemia, data for lncRNA involvement in its etiology, progression, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis is limited. The aim of this review is to summarize research data on lncRNAs in different types of leukemia, on their expression pattern, their role in leukemic transformation and disease progression. The usefulness of this information in the clinical setting, i.e., for diagnostic and prognostic purposes, will be emphasized. Finally, how particular lncRNAs could be used as potential targets for the application of targeted therapy will be considered.