An overview of circular RNAs in the regulation of autophagy in lung cancer

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of stable non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that regulate cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, and stress responses. Autophagy is an essential catabolic process that maintains cellular homeostasis by degrading damaged proteins and organelles. Increasing evidence suggests that circRNAs can influence tumor initiation, progression, and therapeutic response in lung cancer through the modulation of autophagy. In this narrative review, we summarize current findings on the role of circRNAs in regulating autophagic signaling pathways in lung cancer. We also discuss the potential clinical significance of autophagy-related circRNAs, including their role in tumor cell survival, proliferation, and sensitivity to chemotherapy. Although emerging evidence highlights their promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets, further experimental and clinical validation is needed. This review provides an overview of current knowledge and highlights future research directions to improve lung cancer management.