The role of lncRNAs in sepsis-induced acute lung injury: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential.

Summary

This narrative review synthesizes how long noncoding RNAs modulate septic ALI/ARDS, focusing on miRNA-dependent lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory axes that drive inflammation and endothelial/epithelial injury. It highlights emerging diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target opportunities for RNA-based interventions in sepsis-induced lung injury.

Key Findings

• lncRNAs exert both promotive and inhibitory effects on septic ALI progression, impacting inflammatory mediator production and endothelial/epithelial injury.
• miRNA-dependent regulatory pathways (lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA axes) are central mechanisms in septic ALI/ARDS.
• The review highlights lncRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in sepsis-induced lung injury.
• Pathogenic processes include vascular leakage, edema, and vasodilation linking dysregulated immunity and hemostasis to ALI.

Clinical Implications

Immediate bedside changes are premature; however, the synthesis nominates lncRNA signatures as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets to be validated in clinical cohorts and preclinical models.

Limitations

• Narrative review without systematic methodology or PRISMA adherence; no quantitative synthesis.
• Limited in vivo and clinical validation; therapeutic feasibility and delivery remain uncertain.

Future Directions

Validate lncRNA biomarkers in prospective clinical cohorts; manipulate candidate lncRNAs in relevant in vivo sepsis-ALI models; develop safe pulmonary delivery platforms for RNA therapeutics.