CircRNAs: functions and emerging roles in cancer and immunotherapy

Wang Y, Cui Y, Li X, Jin SH, Wang H, Gaipl U, Ma H, Wang S, Zhou JG (2025)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2025

Journal

BMC Medicine BMC

Book Volume: 23

Article Number: 477

Journal Issue: 1

DOI: 10.1186/s12916-025-04306-5

Abstract

Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are emerging as promising tools in cancer and immunotherapy, with unique characteristics that offer potential therapeutic applications. Main body: This review outlines the discovery, biogenesis, and mechanisms of circRNAs, emphasizing their roles in cancer and immune regulation. CircRNAs modulate immune responses by acting as miRNA sponges, binding RNA-binding proteins, or serving as translation templates. These interactions influence T cells, NK cells, macrophages, and immune checkpoints. The review also explores circRNAs’ roles in different cancers, focusing on target identification, immune effects, and mechanisms of action. Additionally, it examines circRNA-based therapies, including vaccines, CAR-T cell therapy, and database applications. Conclusion: Despite their potential, technical hurdles must be overcome to advance circRNAs’ clinical use in cancer immunotherapy. Future research should focus on addressing these challenges to fully realize the therapeutic potential of circRNAs.

Authors with CRIS profile

Udo Gaipl Department of Radiation Oncology

Involved external institutions

Zunyi Medical University

China (CN) Cornell University

United States (USA) (US) University of Macau (UM) / Universidade de Macau / 澳門大學

Macao (MO) Central South University

China (CN)

How to cite

APA:

Wang, Y., Cui, Y., Li, X., Jin, S.H., Wang, H., Gaipl, U.,... Zhou, J.G. (2025). CircRNAs: functions and emerging roles in cancer and immunotherapy. BMC Medicine, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-025-04306-5

MLA:

Wang, Yan, et al. "CircRNAs: functions and emerging roles in cancer and immunotherapy." BMC Medicine 23.1 (2025).

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