The role of miRNAs and lncRNAs in neurofibromatosis type 1

Abstract Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a frequent cancer predisposition syndrome. The common hallmark of patients with this multisystemic genetic disorder is the formation of peripheral nerve sheath tumors, which can be seen as either dermal, plexiform, and malignant forms. MicroRNA (miRNA) is an essential gene regulation factor and consists of 22–25 nucleotides. MiRNAs are identified to act as both tumor suppressors and oncogenes (oncomirs) in a wide variety of human cancers. They play multiple roles in molecular pathways responsible for tumor homing, progression, and invasion. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) also has a key role in cancer transcriptomics. Altered lncRNA expression levels have been found in various malignancies. This review aims to summarize the role of two noncoding RNA groups, miRNAs and lncRNAs, in NF1 establishment, development, and progression. We also highlight their potential for future clinical interventions and devising new diagnostic tools.