Role of Noncoding RNAs in Chronic Pancreatitis

Abstract

Non-coding RNAs do not code for proteins but they are the key players in modulating the expression of large number of protein coding genes which helps in maintaining the normal function of the gene as well as adversely affecting the gene expression leading to disease pathophysiology. Here we discuss the role of such ncRNAs in chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a progressive inflammatory disease of pancreas, resulting in irreversible damage of exocrine and endocrine function of the organ. Furthermore, patients with chronic pancreatitis are more susceptible to pancreatic cancer as compared to any healthy individual. Tissue fibrosis is a characteristic feature of CP, where Pancreatic Stellate Cells (PSCs) has been thought to play a very crucial role. This review highlights the major findings in the field of ncRNAs (especially miRNAs and lncRNAs) with respect to chronic pancreatitis in recent years. These non-coding RNAs apart from helping in understanding the disease biology also have the ability to be used as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of CP.