Emerging role of lncRNAs in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), defined as ≥200 base pairs in length but have little translation potential, play a key role in imprinting control, immune cell differentiation, apoptosis and immune responses. Recently, many potential lncRNAs have been revealed to contribute to a new layer of molecular regulation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Immune-related functional lncRNAs may serve as novel therapeutic targets and disease biomarkers to provide potential support for clinic treatment in this disease. In this review, we will briefly introduce the identification, biogenesis and functions of lncRNAs, and summarize recent advance in the role of lncRNAs in SLE.