Insights from Long Noncoding RNAs into Cancer-immunity Cycle Regulation

Accumulating evidence from recent research offers new perspectives on the functions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in immunooncology. In addition to modulating the aggressiveness of cancer cells, lncRNAs are essential players in regulating various immune cells and stromal cells, playing a role in reshaping the tumor microenvironment and affecting anti-tumor immunity. The insightful discoveries on the role of lncRNAs in immuno-oncological activities indicate the prognostic value of lncRNA markers. Here, we present an overview of the roles of lncRNAs derived from different cell types in the tumor microenvironment, that is, immune cells, tumor cells, and stromal cells, and summarize their functional characterization and mechanisms in immuno-oncological activities. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges of single-cell-based technologies for analyzing the cellular function of immune-related lncRNAs.