An overview of long noncoding RNAs: Biology, functions, therapeutics, analysis methods, and bioinformatics tools

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a diverse class of RNAs whose functions are widespread in all branches of life and have been the focus of attention in the last decade. While a huge number of lncRNAs have been identified, there is still much work to be done and plenty to be learned. In the current review, we begin with the biogenesis and function of lncRNAs as they are involved in the different cellular processes from regulating the architecture of chromosomes to controlling translation and post‐translation modifications. Questions on how overexpression, mutations, or deficiency of lncRNAs can affect the cellular status and result in the pathogenesis of various human diseases are responded to. Besides, we allocate an overview of several studies, concerning the application of lncRNAs either as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or novel therapeutics. We also introduce the currently available techniques to explore details of lncRNAs such as their function, cellular localization, and structure. In the last section, as exponentially growing data in this area need to be gathered and organized in comprehensive databases, we have a particular focus on presenting general and specialized databases. Taken together, with this review, we aim to provide the latest information on different aspects of lncRNAs to highlight their importance in physiopathologic states and take a step towards helping future studies. Significance statement This study aims to review the roles of long noncoding RNAs in the pathogenesis of diseases and introduce them as potential candidates for diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, there are a significant number of lncRNAs whose molecular mechanisms and functions are poorly understood; illustrating the importance of bioinformatics tools and databases to predict and analyze the structure, function, and other features of these molecules. In addition, developing high‐throughput techniques has accelerated the process of lncRNA research. Thus, we reviewed the bioinformatic tools and different techniques to explore diverse aspects of lncRNAs, hoping this information will be a beacon of light for future studies.