Long Noncoding RNAs as Diagnostic and Therapeutic Targets for Ischemic Stroke

LncRNAs (long non-coding RNAs) are endogenous molecules lacking protein-encoding capacity, which have been identified as key regulators of ischemic stroke. Increasing evidence suggests that lncRNAs play critical roles in several aspects of ischemic stroke, including atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Hence, lncRNAs may further broaden our understanding of stroke pathogenesis. Altered lncRNA expression has been found in rodent focal cerebral ischemia models and oxygen–glucose deprived mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells as well as stroke patients. LncRNAs are considered to be promising biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cerebral ischemia. Here, we have reviewed the latest advances in lncRNA-based therapeutic approaches for ischemic disease. Accordingly, we summarize the current understanding of lncRNAs and ischemic stroke, focusing on the regulatory role of lncRNAs in ischemic stroke, as well as their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cerebral ischemia.