New studies on the mechanism of action and clinical application of long non-coding RNAs in oral squamous cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVES

The regulatory mechanisms and clinical significance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) have become a research hotspot in recent years.

DESIGN

We conducted a narrative review of PubMed, CNKI, and Wanfang databases (2014-2024). Using Boolean combinations of "lncRNA," "OSCC," and "pathogenesis," we screened original studies. Selection focused on human OSCC functional mechanisms and clinical biomarkers, while excluding papers with insufficient data or irrelevant cancer types.

RESULTS

lncRNAs regulate gene expression and signaling pathways by interacting with their targets (including nucleic acids and proteins), playing a key role in the occurrence, development, metastasis, and drug resistance of OSCC.Advances in non-invasive testing technologies such as liquid biopsy, as well as breakthroughs in lncRNA-targeting techniques based on CRISPR and antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), have provided new tools for related research and applications.

CONCLUSION

This article systematically summarizes the molecular mechanisms of lncRNA in OSCC and explores its clinical application prospects, aiming to provide direction for future theoretical research and clinical translation.