Long non-coding RNAs in multiple myeloma (Review)

Multiple myeloma (MM) is one of the three major malignancies of the hematological system in middle-aged and older individuals. The incidence of MM increases with age and due to its drug resistance and high recurrence, MM seriously harms human health. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA molecules with a length of >200 nt and rarely encode proteins. Numerous studies reported that lncRNAs regulate carcinogenesis and cancer progression. MM-associated lncRNAs affect features of tumor cells, including proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion and treatment resistance. The present review aims to summarize the latest findings on the roles of lncRNAs in MM to deepen the understanding of this field and provide insight for developing specific diagnostic tools and effective treatment strategies for MM, including novel biomarkers and targeted lncRNA therapeutics.