Emerging roles of long non-coding RNAs in osteoarthritis: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic opportunities

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert a significant influence on the occurrence and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). LncRNAs are characterized by their multifunctional nature, capable of regulating the expression, transcription, translation, and structural function of target genes through various mechanisms, spanning epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational levels. This review examines the mechanisms and functions of lncRNAs in cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and inflammatory responses in chondrocytes, synovial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from mice and humans associated with OA. We emphasize the integral role of lncRNAs in the OA disease process. Conclusively, we present insights into OA treatment from the perspective of targeting lncRNAs, addressing future development prospects and potential clinical applications.