Non-coding RNAs in the viral host-pathogen interaction: molecular regulation and therapeutic potential

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA), serve as key regulatory molecules in the context of viral infection. They play dual roles by modulating host immune responses and influencing viral replication, persistence, and disease progression. Numerous ncRNAs have been implicated in infections caused by viruses such as HCV, DENV and SARS-CoV. This review highlights the biogenesis and multifaceted functions of both host-encoded and virus-encoded ncRNAs in shaping host-pathogen interactions. It also examines their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic agents for viral infections. We discuss translational applications such as Miravirsen, a miRNA inhibitor that reached clinical trials for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and diagnostic relevance of lncRNA NEAT1 in SARS-CoV-2 infection. In the end, we have also addressed the current challenges and limitations involved in translating research observations of ncRNAs to clinical outcomes.