Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a family of non-protein-coding RNAs with length of more than 200 nucleotides. These lncRNAs have gained considerable attention and recently emerged as main participants in biological processes. An increasing number of studies showed that lncRNAs play important roles in diverse cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and chromatin remodelling. Importantly, lncRNAs are increasingly recognised in cancer biology and prognosis. Multiple studies also indicated that lncRNAs play important roles in tumour growth and metastasis and poor prognosis in multiple tumour types. These RNAs may also act as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for human cancers. Furthermore, lncRNA deregulation is observed in multiple tumours. However, the molecular mechanism of lncRNAs in cancer initiation, progression and metastasis remains poorly understood. In this review, we highlight the recent findings on lncRNAs in cancer pathogenesis and summarise an overview of current knowledge concerning the expression and role of lncRNA in various cancers. Additionally, lncRNAs emerged as a new class of promising cancer biomarkers. Independent studies demonstrated the feasibility of their use as tools in the diagnosis and prognosis of different types of malignancies and in the prediction and possible monitoring treatment response. The role of lncRNAs in cancers is an emerging field of study. Although our understanding about the role of lncRNAs in the onset and progression of cancers is still in its infancy, further understanding the activities of lncRNAs will secure improved treatment options for cancer patients.
