lncRNAs: a new generation of targets and biomarkers in thyroid cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are untranslated RNA molecules that regulate gene expression through diverse mechanisms, acting as scaffolds, guides, decoys, or signals. In thyroid cancer, the most prevalent endocrine malignancy, lncRNAs are increasingly recognized as key contributors to tumor development and progression. Elucidating these molecular mechanisms is essential for advancing diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies. This review highlights major lncRNAs implicated in thyroid cancer, categorizing them as upregulated/oncogenes or downregulated/tumor suppressors and describing their mechanisms of action and interactions. lncRNAs are typically expressed at low levels and tightly regulated to preserve normal cell behavior. In thyroid cancer, they serve as crucial regulators of oncogenesis, frequently acting as competing endogenous RNAs that influence key signaling pathways. While most studies focus on miRNA sponging, other mechanisms are underexplored. Circulating lncRNAs offer potential for non-invasive diagnostics, and several lncRNAs show promise as therapeutic targets. Thus, continued research into the diverse functions of lncRNAs is vital to fully harness their clinical potential in thyroid cancer.