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1. Introduction

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcribed by either RNA polymerase II (PolII) or PolIII, with a typical length exceeding 200 nucleotides, possessing a cap structure at the 5' end and being polyadenylated at the 3' end. It has been observed that the majority of lncRNAs cannot encode proteins (1). However, certain lncRNAs can produce short peptides that have a role in cellular physiology; for instance, HOXB cluster antisense RNA 3 can encode a conserved 53-amino acid peptide (2). Several mechanisms, including epigenetic modifications, competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanisms (3), RNA-protein interactions, as well as the involvement of exosomes containing lncRNAs, contribute to the regulation of gene expression within cells.

Esophageal cancer (ESCA) primarily consists of two major subtypes, namely esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma. It has been established that lncRNAs play a crucial role in the progression of ESCC. Clinically, lncRNAs have been associated with various aspects of ESCC, including lymph node metastasis, tumor size (4), tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage (3), prognosis (5), overall survival (OS) rate (6), pathological grade of differentiation (7), survival duration (8), malignancy grade (9), distant metastasis (10), depth of invasion (11) and postoperative metastasis (12). In ESCC cell lines, lncRNAs have been implicated in processes such as cell proliferation (13), migration (14), invasion (15), epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (16), cell cycle progression (17), radiosensitivity (18), glycolysis (19), chemotherapy resistance, apoptosis (20), angiogenesis (21), maintenance of stem cell characteristics (22), as well as autophagy-related events (23). In both cell-derived xenograft (CDX) models and patient-derived tumor xenografts (PDX), lncRNAs have been linked to tumor growth (24), lymph node metastasis (25), liver metastasis (16), lung metastasis (9), bone metastasis (13), chemotherapy resistance (26) and resistance to radiotherapy (27). The expanding knowledge of lncRNAs and their mechanisms has shed light on their diverse functions. This review aims to summarize recent studies on the involvement of lncRNAs in ESCC, providing valuable insight into the clinical diagnosis, treatment and prevention of ESCC.

2. Regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs in ESCC

CeRNAs

In the ceRNA pathway, lncRNAs act as ceRNAs, sequestering micro (mi)RNAs and preventing them from binding to target mRNAs, thereby enhancing mRNA expression (28). The ceRNA mechanism has garnered significant attention in recent years for its role in regulating cellular protein expression.

RNA-protein interactions

Classic examples of ncRNA-protein complexes include ribosomal RNAs and transfer RNAs, which are essential for protein translation within cells. MiRNAs can bind to various proteins such as Dicer, transactivation response element RNA-binding protein, protein kinase activating protein, Gemin3 and Argonaute to form the RNA-induced protein-coating complex (RISC) that influences gene expression (29). Recent studies have found that ncRNAs, including lncRNAs, can modulate protein stability and activity by binding to proteins, thereby influencing mRNA expression, translational control and cellular localization.

3. LncRNAs upregulated in ESCC

In general, lncRNAs that are highly expressed in ESCC tend to promote tumorigenesis and the development of ESCC. However, abnormally upregulated lncRNAs may act as oncogenic factors in normal cells. Abnormally upregulated lncRNAs are often positively correlated with ESCC phenotypes such as proliferation, migration, invasion, chemo-resistance and radiotherapy resistance.

LncRNAs based on the ceRNA mechanism

Family member with sequence similarity 83 antisense RNA/miR-214/cell division cycle 25B (CDC25B) were shown to promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE30 and EC109 cells and to be associated with TNM staging and tumor differentiation grading (3). Zinc finger NFX1-type containing 1 antisense RNA 1 (ZF-AS1)/miR-124/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of ECA109 cells and enhanced the growth of CDX (ECA109) tumors (13). Taurine upregulated 1/miR-498/CDC42 promoted the proliferation and invasion of TE-1 and KYSE30 cells (30). miR205HG/miR-214/SRY-box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) aided in cell cycle progression, proliferation, invasion and migration of KYSE30 and EC109 cells, with its function related to tumor size and lymphatic metastasis (4). Opa interacting protein 5-AS1/miR-1297 was able to promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of ECA109 cells and was linked to unfavorable clinical outcomes (14). Deleted in lymphocytic leukemia 1 (DLEU1)/miR-671-5p/high mobility group AT-hook 1 could promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of ECA109 cells (15).

LOC146880/miR-328-5p/Fascin actin-bundling protein 1 (FSCN1) has been shown to activate the MAPK pathway and promote the growth and liver metastasis of CDX (KYSE30) as well as the proliferation, invasion, migration and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of KYSE30 and TE-1 cells (16). It was also shown to inhibit apoptosis in KYSE150 cells. LINC00680/miR-423-5p/p21 (also known as RAC1) activated kinase 6 promoted proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of KYSE140 and KYSE510 cells and enhanced the growth of CDX (KYSE510), correlating with tumor volume, stage and prognosis (31). LINC01711/miR-326/FSCN1 promoted TE-1 proliferation, migration, invasion and growth, enhanced CDX (TE-1) growth and inhibited apoptosis (24). High expression in hepatocellular carcinoma/miR-4458/PBX homeobox 3 enhanced EC109 cell viability and invasion (32). Gastric cancer associated transcript 3/miR-149/forkhead box (FOX)M1 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE150 and KYSE510 cells and increased CDX (KYSE510) growth (33). Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 α-AS1/miRNA-298/transcription factor 4 could promote EMT and stem cell stemness of EC109 and KYSE70 cells (22).

Actin filament associated protein 1-AS1/miR-498/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A could promote the survival of ECA109 and KYSE30 cells and aid in their growth and migration (34). LINC00467/miR-485-5p/dolichyl-phosphate N-acetylglucosaminephosphotransferase 1 helped KYSE510 and TE-5 cells proliferate, promoted CDX (KYSE510) growth and prevented apoptosis of cancer cells (35). Epidermal growth factor receptor-AS1/miR-145/Rho associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 promoted EC109 migration and invasion and was associated with OS (6). Small nucleolar RNA host gene 17 (SNHG17)/miR-338-3p/SOX4 promoted proliferation, invasion and EMT of ECA109 and TE-1, and enhanced CDX (ECA109) growth (36). Motor neuron and pancreas homeobox 1-AS1/miR-34a/Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) promoted growth, migration, invasion and cell cycle progression in KYSE30 and KYSE150 cells, inhibited apoptosis and were linked to lymph node metastasis (37). THAP domain-containing protein 9 (THAP9)-AS1/miR-335-5p/Sphingomyelin synthase 2 aided the growth, migration, invasion, EMT and survival of KYSE150 and TE-10 cells (38).

MAF BZIP transcription factor G-AS1/miR-765/pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 have been shown to promote the proliferation, migration, invasion and aerobic glycolysis of EC109 cells (39). SNHG6/miR-101-3p/enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH2) inhibited apoptosis in EC1 and KYSE30 cells (40). FAM83H-AS1/miR-10a-5p/Girdin increased proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in KYSE150 and TE-1 and was linked to TNM staging, pathologic staging and lymph node metastasis (41). Cancer susceptibility candidate 15 (CASC15)/miR-33a-5p/prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE150 and KYSE450 cells (42). Juxtaposed with X-inactivation center/miR-516b-5p/VEGFA stimulated EC9706 and KYSE150 cell growth, angiogenesis, migration and invasion, as well as the growth of CDX (EC9706) (43). SNHG6/miR-186-5p/hypoxia inducible factor 1 subunit α (HIF1α) promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of EC109 and KYSE150 cells (44). LINC00858/miR-425-5p/ABL proto-oncogene 2, non-receptor tyrosine kinase enhanced the proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT of ECA109 and EC9706 cells (45).

Differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA/miR-33a-5p/zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) could promote the proliferation and metastasis of EC1 and KYSE150 cells, which was shown to correlate with prognosis (46). Breast cancer anti-estrogen resistance 4 (BCAR4)/miR-139-3p/ELAV like RNA binding protein 1 suppressed the p53/p21 signaling pathway, facilitated EC109 and TE-1 cells growth and migration, and prevented their death (47). Chromosome 9 open reading frame 72/miR-661/histone deacetylase 11 promoted proliferation, migration and invasion of TE-1 and ECA109 cells through the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathway, promoted CDX (TE-1) growth and inhibited apoptosis (48). miR31HG/miR-34a/MET proto-oncogene, receptor tyrosine kinase helped CDX (KYSE30) grow and stopped apoptosis (49). LINC01980/miR-190a-5p/myosin VA promoted proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of KYSE150 and ECA109 cells and was shown to be associated with cancer prognosis (50). THAP9-AS1/miR-133b/SOX4 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of ECA109 and KYSE30, and CDX (ECA109) growth, inhibited apoptosis and were shown to be associated with tumor size, TNM staging, lymph node metastasis and cancer prognosis. SOX4 in turn bound to the THAP9-AS1 promoter and facilitated transcription, forming a positive feedback loop (51).

MCEI (ENST00000441932)/miR-6759-5p/Insulin like growth factor 2 (IGF2) has been shown to promote KYSE30 and EC109 cells' proliferation, migration, cisplatin resistance and invasion through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. It also made CDX (KYSE30 and EC109) resistant to cisplatin and inhibited apoptosis (52). Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase-AS1/miR-382-5p promoted the expression of NNT, the proliferation and migration of ECA109 and KYSE30 cells, as well as inhibiting cell apoptosis, and promoting the growth of CDX (ECA109) (53). Homo sapiens uncharacterized LOC100507002/miR-6785-5p/neurensin 2 promoted the proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of KYSE150, KYSE510 and KYSE140, and promoted the growth of CDX (KYSE510). It has been associated with gender, deep invasion, lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis in patients with ESCC (54). LncSUMO1P3/miR-486-5p/phosducin (PHD) or PHD finger protein 8 regulated CD151 [CD151 molecule (Raph blood group)] expression and promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of KYSE150 and KYSE450 (55). Prostate cancer associated transcript 5/miR-4295/PHD finger protein 20 upregulated the proliferation, migration and invasion of EC109 and KYSE450 cells (56). X-inactive specific transcript (XIST)/miR-34a/ZEB1 promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of KYSE150 cells. It has been shown to promote the growth of CDX (KYSE150) and was associated with metastasis and reduced survival (57).

Zinc finger protein, FOG family member 2-AS1/miR-3612/TNF receptor-associated factor 4 could promote proliferation, migration and invasion, and inhibit apoptosis in EC9706 and TE-10 cells through NF-κB (58). LINC00662/miR-340-5p/homeobox B2 enhanced the proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE510 cells, which was associated with cancer prognosis (59). Colon cancer associated transcript 2/miR-200b/IGF2 mRNA binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) modulated thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) mRNA through m6A and IGF2BP2, leading to stabilized TK1 expression, enhanced ESC410 migration and spread, and promotion of CDX (ESC410) tumor formation (60). SET binding factor 2-AS1/miR-494/profilin 2 promoted proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in ECA109 and KYSE150 cells (61). LINC00941/miR-877-3p/prostate transmembrane protein, androgen induced 1 facilitated proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT of KYSE510 and KYSE30 cells (62). LINC00152/miR-153-3p/FYN proto-oncogene, Src family tyrosine kinase supported the proliferation and colony formation of EC109 and KYSE150 cells, and CDX (EC109) growth, while inhibiting apoptosis, and showing a correlation with TNM staging, lymph node metastasis and prognosis (63).

Proteasome 20S subunit α 3-AS1/miR-101/EZH2 could stimulate the proliferation, invasion and migration of KYSE150 and KYSE450 cells, and has been associated with tumor size, distant metastasis and prognosis (10). LINC00963/miR-214-5p/RAB14, member RAS oncogene family enhanced the proliferation and invasion of KYSE150 and TE-1 cells, thereby promoting CDX (KYSE150) growth and showing an association with TNM staging, metastasis and prognosis (64). Gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase 1 (BBOX1)-AS1/miR-506-5p/eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A boosted the proliferation and stem cell stemness of KYSE450 and EC109 cells by stabilizing patched 1 expression and activating the Hedgehog signaling pathway (65). Forkhead box D2-AS1/miR-204-3p stimulated the proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE150 and EC109 cells, as well as promoting CDX (KYSE150) growth (66). Kinectin 1 (KTN1)-AS1/miR-885-5p/striatin 3 enhanced the proliferation, invasion and EMT of KYSE150 cells through the YAP1-dependent Hippo signaling pathway (67).

XIST/miR-129-5p/cyclin D1 have been shown to aid in the cell cycle progression, proliferation, migration and invasion of EC9706 and ECA109 cells, while preventing CDX (ECA109) growth by inhibiting apoptosis (68). LINC00473/miR-497-5p/protein kinase AMP-activated catalytic subunit α 1 promoted the proliferation, migration, EMT and growth of CDX (KYSE30) in KYSE30 and TE-1 cells (69). Nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1/miR-590-3p/MDM2 proto-oncogene (MDM2) enhanced the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of ECA109 and TE-13 cells, as well as promoting the growth of CDX (ECA109) (70). Lnc-ABCA12-3/miR-200b-3p/fibronectin 1 facilitated the migration, invasion and proliferation of KYSE510 and ECA109 cells and was linked to lymph node metastasis and prognosis (71). ESCC-related lncRNAs transcript 1 (ESCCAL-1)/miR-590/LDL receptor related protein 6 promoted the growth, invasion and migration of KYSE150 and KYSE450 cells (72). RAR related orphan receptor (ROR)/miR-145/FSCN1 enhanced EC109 migration and invasion and was shown to be associated with patient survival (73).

LOC440173/miR-30d-5p/histone deacetylase 9 could promote the proliferation, migration, invasion, as well as EMT in KYSE150 cells, as well as growth of CDX (KYSE150), and was shown to be associated with histological grading, tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis and TNM stage (74). Similarly, LINC00514/miR-378a-5p/pphingosine kinase 1 has been shown to promote proliferation and invasion in KYSE150 and KYSE30 cells, upregulate adipogenesis-related proteins, and to be associated with lymph node metastasis and prognosis (75). LINC00473/miR-374a-5p/spindlin 1 could promote radioresistance in TE-1 and EC9706 cells and has been linked to TNM staging (76). Meanwhile, LINC00473/miR-497-5p/CDC25A facilitated survival and radioresistance in KYSE30 and TE-5 cells, and was associated with T-stage, lymph node metastasis staging and tumor differentiation grading (77). NCK adaptor protein 1-AS1/miR-133b/glutamyl aminopeptidase enhanced proliferation, invasion and migration in EC109 and EC9706 cells, inhibited cell apoptosis and promoted CDX (EC109) growth (78).

Lipase H 4/miR-216b/IGF2BP2 promoted growth and cell cycle progression in KYSE150 and KYSE510 cells, as well as CDX (KYSE510) growth, and inhibited apoptosis, correlating with tumor size and prognosis (79). Testis-specific transcript, Y-linked 15/miRNA-337-3p/Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of TE-3 cells (80). LINC01232/miRNA-654-3p/Heparin binding growth factor (HDGF) enhanced the proliferation, migration and invasion of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells, while inhibiting apoptosis (81). LINC00152/miR-107/RAB10, member RAS oncogene family boosted migration and invasion of TE-1 and KYSE30 cells (82).

ROR/miR-204-5p/MDM2 heightened cell activity and proliferation of EC109 cells, whilst inhibiting cell apoptosis by promoting p53 ubiquitination (83). BCAR4/miRNA-181c-5p/LIM and SH3 protein 1 aided the invasion and movement of EC9706 and TE-1 cells, and CDX growth (EC9706), while preventing apoptosis (84). BBOX1-AS1/miR-513a-3p/Solute carrier family 7 member 11 was shown to promote proliferation, invasion and migration of TE-1 and KYSE150 cells, CDX (TE-1), inhibit apoptosis and ferroptosis, and to be associated with patient prognosis (85). Lastly, protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type G-AS1/miR-599/pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1) boosted the proliferation, migration, glycolysis and stem cell stemness in TE-8 and KYSE150 cells (86).

LncRNAs regulated by RNA-protein interactions

Actin gamma 1 pseudogene interacted with 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3, enhancing its stability and preventing ubiquitination by APC/C. This interaction has been shown to promote cell cycle progression by activating glycolysis in KYSE150 and KYSE30 cells (19). Solute carrier family 25 member 21 (SLC25A21)-AS1 was reported to bind to nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1), facilitating c-Myc-mediated downstream gene transcription, leading to increased growth, migration and cisplatin resistance in KYSE30 and KYSE450 cells, as well as being associated with tumor grade and patient OS (7). LINC01554 was demonstrated to bind to GTPase activating protein (SH3 domain) binding protein 2 (G3BP2), protecting it from ubiquitin-mediated degradation. This interaction stabilized HDGF expression by binding to HDGF mRNA, promoting invasion and metastasis in KYSE410 and KYSE510 cells, as well as facilitating CDX metastasis (87). Similarly, LINC00239 bound to and inhibited c-Myc promoter-binding protein-1 expression, resulting in the activation of c-Myc transcription and promoting proliferation, metastasis, invasion and EMT in KYSE170 and KYSE150 cells, with implications for cancer prognosis (88). SNHG16 recruited and bound to eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A3, controlling RhoU mRNA stability and promoting growth and spread in ECA109, KYSE30, KYSE140 and KYSE410 cells, as well as influencing tumor differentiation and staging (89). Binder of MAP3K1 and KLF4-AS1 bound to G3BP2, inhibiting the degradation of c-Myc mRNA and promoting proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE450 and KYSE510 cells, with implications for malignant phenotype and c-Myc expression (90).

DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 5 (DGCR5) bound to serine and arginine rich splicing factor 1, stabilizing it and regulating selective splicing. This interaction promoted myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1) splicing and facilitated Mcl-1L isoform switching, promoting proliferation, migration and invasion in TE-1 and KYSE170 cells, as well as inhibiting apoptosis (91). DLEU1 bound to dynein light chain LC8-type 1, inhibiting its ubiquitination and degradation by ring finger protein 114, thereby inhibiting apoptosis in KYSE410 and EC109 cells, promoting cisplatin/cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (CDDP) resistance and conferring resistance in CDX (KYSE410) cells (92). GK intronic transcript 1 bound to mitogen-activated protein kinase 1, preventing its interaction with dual specificity phosphatase 6 and activating the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway, promoting proliferation, invasion and migration in TE-1 and TE-10 cells, as well as being associated with clinical staging and prognosis (23). SNHG17 bound to Jun proto-oncogene, AP-1 transcription factor subunit (c-Jun), facilitating c-Myc transcription and promoting proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in ECA109 and KYSE150 cells, as well as inhibiting apoptosis and correlating with patient survival (93). Lastly, ESCCAL-1 prevented galectin 1 degradation through ubiquitination, promoting growth and cell cycle progression in EC9706, KYSE150 and KYSE450 cells (94).

Activation of LBX2-AS1 by ZEB1 enhanced ZEB1 and ZEB2 transcription through interaction with heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C, leading to increased migration and EMT in KYSE150 and EC109 cells (95). LINC00337 bound to E2F transcription factor 4 to upregulate TPX2 microtubule nucleation factor expression, facilitating autophagy and cisplatin resistance in ECA109 cells, as well as cisplatin resistance in CDX (ECA109) (96). In the case of LINC01305, interaction with IGF2BP 2 and 3 stabilized mRNA coding 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 3A, promoting migration and proliferation in KYSE510 and KYSE140 cells (97). On the other hand, LINC01296 interacted with EZH2 to repress KLF transcription factor 2 expression, fueling proliferation, clone formation, migration and invasion in EC106 and EC9706 cells, as well as contributing to lymph node metastasis, TNM staging and OS (98). SOX2 transcribed neurensin 2-AS1, which was bound to phosphoglycerate kinase 1 to inhibit its ubiquitination, thereby enhancing proliferation, migration and invasion, as well as correlating with survival in KYSE170 cells (99).

Transmembrane protein 44-AS1 was reported to bind to IGF2BP2 to stabilize glutathione peroxidase 4 mRNA, thereby suppressing ferroptosis and promoting proliferation, invasion and metastasis of ECA109, KYSE30 and KYSE150 cells (100). Protein disulfide isomerase family A member 3 pseudogene 1 (PDIA3P1) interacted with octamer-binding transcription factor 4 to prevent ubiquitination and degradation, thereby driving proliferation, invasion, metastasis and stem cell stemness in TE-1, ECA109, KYSE30 and KYSE150 cells. It was also found to inhibit cancer cell apoptosis and function as a transcription factor for PDIA3P1 (101). G077640 interacted with H2A.X variant histone to inhibit the degradation of HIF1α, leading to increased expression of glucose transporter type 4, hexokinase 2 and PDK1, reprogramming intracellular glycolysis metabolism, and promoting proliferation and migration in TE-11 and KYSE150 cells, ultimately supporting the growth of CDX (KYSE150) (102). Similarly, HOXC cluster-AS1 was reported to bind to IGF2BP2, thereby stabilizing SIRT1 expression, promoting proliferation and migration in ECA109 and KYSE30 cells, and supporting the growth of CDX (KYSE30) (103). Moreover, LINC00941 interacting with interleukin enhancer binding factor 2 and Y-box binding protein 1 boosted SOX2 expression, proliferation, stem cell differentiation, migration and invasion in TE-1 and KYSE170 cells, as well as promoting the growth of CDX (TE-1) (104).

Epigenetic regulation

Various lncRNAs are upregulated in ESCC, which modulates gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms. Double homeobox A pseudogene 10, expressed in KYSE30 and KYSE180 cells, recruited EZH2 to the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor 1A (P21) promoter, leading to the silencing of P21 expression. This silencing in turn promoted cell proliferation, metastasis and cell cycle progression, as well as inhibiting apoptosis (8). FOXP4-AS1 bound to the FOXP4 promoter by enriching mixed lineage leukemia protein (MLL)2 and trimethylation of lysine 4 on histone H3 (H3K4me3), which promoted the expression of FOXP4. FOXP4 then acted as a transcription factor for β-catenin, promoting the proliferation, invasion and migration of YES-2 and KYSE150 cells. This lncRNA was also associated with lymph node metastasis and TNM staging (105). Thymopoietin (TMPO)-AS1 bound to FUS RNA binding protein (FUS) and recruited p300 to the TMPO promoter, resulting in histone h3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) and activation of TMPO transcription. This lncRNA promoted proliferation, metastasis and the growth of CDX (KYSE150 and TE-11) cell lines, and correlated with patients' survival (106). LINC01419 bound to the glutathione S-transferase pi 1 (GSTP1) promoter region, leading to increased methylation of the GSTP1 promoter and decreased expression of GSTP1 by recruiting DNA methyltransferases. This promoted proliferation and 5-FU resistance, while inhibiting apoptosis in EC9706 and KYSE70 cells (107). H3K27ac activated the expression of Lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1-AS1, which interacted with programmed cell death 5, resulting in tumor protein p53 degradation. This promoted the proliferation of ECA109 cells and the growth of CDX (EC109), and was associated with OS (108).

Functional role of antisense lncRNAs

Briefly, in terms of antisense lncRNAs, SLC25A21-AS1 increased the stability of SLC25A21 mRNA by affecting tryptophan catabolism (7). Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-AS1 promoted the proliferation, invasion and migration of Eca109 and TE-1 cells by antagonizing the expression of miR-2467-3p, which in turn promoted PCNA expression (109).

M6A modulates the regulatory function of lncRNAs

N6-methyladenosine (M6A) is a common internal modification found in mRNAs, and recent research indicates that M6A also plays a role in modifying lncRNAs, influencing their stability either positively or negatively (110). For instance, M6A methylation of LINC00022 was suppressed by FTO α-ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase (FTO), inhibiting its degradation by YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein F2. This interaction led to the binding of LINC00022 to p21, promoting p21 ubiquitination and degradation, ultimately facilitating the progression and proliferation of KYSE150 and TE-1 cells (17). In addition, CASC8 interacted with alkB homolog 5, RNA demethylase (m6A RNA demethylase) to stabilize its expression. This binding inhibited the ubiquitination and degradation of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L, activated the Bcl2/caspase3 pathway, reduced sensitivity to cisplatin in YES-2, KYSE450, KYSE30 and KYSE180, and promoted the growth of CDX (KYSE30) along with correlating with prognosis (111). Furthermore, CASC15 diminished single-minded 2 stability through demethylation mediation, thereby promoting the proliferation of ECA109 and KYSE450, hindering apoptosis and correlating with prognosis (112). LncRNA HLA complex P5 interacted with YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein F1 (YTHDF1) to enhance the m6A modification of HK2 mRNA by YTHDF1, leading to increased HK2 stability, which in turn promoted the proliferation, invasion and Warburg effect of EC109 and TE10 cells. This interaction also boosted the growth of CDX (EC109) and correlated with tumor volume, TNM stage, lymph node metastasis and survival time (113).

Resistance to radio- and chemotherapy

A study revealed that lncRNA HCP5/miR-216a-3p/PDK1 enhanced radiotherapy resistance in KYSE30 and TE-1 cells by activating the AKT signaling pathway (114). Similarly, LINC00963/miR-10a/spindle and kinetochore associated complex subunit 1 was found to increase cisplatin resistance in TE-1 and TE-1/DDP cells, thereby promoting CDX growth (115). Furthermore, after cisplatin treatment, lncRNA non-coding repressor of NFAT was upregulated, contributing to cisplatin resistance by downregulating miR-31 in KYSE510 (116). Another study showed that Linc01614/miR-4775 enhanced proliferation and cisplatin resistance in EC9706 and KYSE30 cells, while inhibiting cell apoptosis and promoting CDX growth in EC9706 (117). In addition, lncRNA HCP5 inhibited UTP3 small subunit processome component ubiquitination and degradation, leading to the recruitment of c-MYC to activate vesicle associated membrane protein 3 expression and inhibited caspase-dependent apoptosis, ultimately resulting in cisplatin resistance in CDX (KYSE150) (118). Researchers also found that FTO, in association with m6A modification, stabilized long intergenic noncoding RNA for kinase activation (LINK-A) expression, promoted CDK1-mediated phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit α (MCM), relieved MCM-mediated HIF-1α transcriptional repression, and promoted glycolysis and cisplatin resistance in the KYSE450 and KYSE150 cell lines. This mechanism also facilitated cisplatin resistance in PDX and CDX (KYSE450 and KYSE150) (119). Furthermore, lncRNA SOX2 overlapping transcript (SOX2OT) was discovered to enhance the expression of stem cell-related genes, sphere formation ability and docetaxel resistance in KYSE30 and YM1 cells (120).

Other mechanisms of action

Non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) has been shown to interact with pumilio RNA binding family member 1 on pri-miR-199a, leading to the inhibition of miR-199a-5p processing and maturation. This resulted in the attenuation of miR-199a-5p silencing of endonuclease/exonuclease/phosphatase family domain containing 1, ultimately enhancing radioresistance in KYSE150 and TE-1 cells (18). In addition, NORAD inhibited the formation of mature RISC by binding to Ago2, which inhibited metadherin silencing by miR-224-3p. This promoted β-catenin accumulation and contributed to CDDP resistance in KYSE30 and TE-1 cells, as well as cisplatin resistance in CDX (KYSE30 and TE-1) (26). LincIN has been shown to bind to interleukin enhancer binding factor 3 (NF90), enhancing NF90's binding to prim-miR-7 and further inhibiting miR-7. This resulted in increased homeobox B13 expression, promoting the growth, migration and invasion of TE-1 and ECA109 cells, which correlated with invasion, lymph node metastasis, TNM staging and prognosis (11). LINC02042 enhanced the viability, invasion and growth of KYSE30 and KYSE150 cells. This lncRNA stabilized c-Myc mRNA by doubling the Y-box binding protein 1 of the c-Myc mRNA 3'-UTR, leading to enhanced stability of c-Myc mRNA. C-Myc also enhanced LINC02042 transcription by binding the E-box proximal end to the transcription start site of the LINC02042 promoter (9). FOXP4-AS1 has been shown to bind to IGF2BP2, promoting stability of FOXP4 mRNA and inhibiting apoptosis, while promoting proliferation in KYSE150 and KYSE450 cells (121).

LINC01004 recruited Spi-1 proto-oncogene in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) to induce transcription of sialic acid binding Ig like lectin 9, leading to M2 polarization of TAMs and enhanced radio-resistance and immunosuppression in TE-1 and KYSE30 cells, and inhibiting radiation-induced ferroptosis (122). LINC00858 enhanced zinc finger protein 184 expression and upregulated FTO expression, ultimately enhancing MYC expression and promoting proliferation, migration, invasion and growth in TE-1 cells (123). N-acetyltransferase 10-mediated N4-acetylcytidine modification upregulated lncRNA CTC-490G23.2 expression, promoting CD44 pre-mRNA binding to polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1, inducing transformation of CD44 molecule (IN blood group) (CD44s) into CD44v and promoting invasion of KYSE150 and KYSE410 cells, as well as CDX (KYSE150) translocation (124). LINC02820 interacted with splicing factor 3b subunit 3 and synergistically mediated nuclear factor kappa-B signaling with tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-like to promote migration and invasion of KYSE180, KYSE410, KYSE30 and EC109 cells (125). LncRNA prostate cancer associated transcript 6 activated the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, thereby promoting proliferation, migration, invasion and stem cell stemness in EC109 cells, which was shown to be associated with prognosis, clinical features and immune expansion (126).

4. LncRNAs downregulated in ESCC

Studies have shown that the number of genes downregulated in tumors is significantly less than that of genes that are upregulated. This pattern is also observed in lncRNA research in ESCC. During the literature review, genes with no expression difference were not included, suggesting more studies reporting differentially upregulated genes.

LncRNAs operating via the ceRNA mechanism

Various lncRNAs have been identified to exert regulatory effects through the ceRNA mechanism in ESCA. KLF transcription factor 3-AS1, acting through the miR-185-5p/KLF axis, demonstrated inhibitory effects on the clone formation, invasion and migration abilities of ECA109 cells, and the growth of corresponding xenografts (127). Similarly, prostate androgen-regulated transcript 1 (PART1), by sponging miR-18a-5p to modulate SOX6, suppressed the β-catenin/c-Myc signaling pathway, thereby impeding proliferation and invasion of ECA109 and EC9706 cells and correlating with clinical parameters such as TNM staging and lymph node metastasis (5). Metaxin 2-6, through the miR-574-5p/SMAD family member 4 axis, hindered proliferation and promoted apoptosis in EC1 and EC109 cells, with implications for tumor volume and prognosis (128). LET, interacting with miR-93-5p or miR-106b-5p to regulate suppressor of cytokine signaling 4, exhibited anti-proliferative effects in ECA109 and KYSE410 cells, as well as in corresponding xenografts (129). WD repeat and FYVE domain containing 3-AS2, via miR-2355-5p/suppressor of cytokine signaling 2, impeded the JAK2/STAT5 pathway, thereby suppressing proliferation, invasion and EMT in EC9706 and TE-1 cells, with implications for TNM staging, lymph node metastasis and prognosis (130). In addition, ribosomal protein L34 (RPL34)-AS1, through the miR-575/acetyl-CoA acyltransferase 2 (ACAA2) axis, demonstrated inhibitory effects on proliferation, clone formation, invasion and migration of EC109 cells, with an influence on OS (131).

Furthermore, LINC00261, by modulating the miR-545-3p/metallothionein 1M axis, attenuated proliferation and cisplatin resistance, and promoted apoptosis in TE-1 and ECA109 cells (132). Transmembrane protein 161B-AS1, through miR-23a-3p/HIF1α inhibitor, inhibited proliferation, invasion and glycolysis of ECA109 and KYSE30 cells, with implications for TNM staging, lymph node metastasis and prognosis (133). LncRNA transducer of ERBB2, 1-AS1, by sponging miR-103a-2-5p to modulate TOB1, inhibited the growth, migration and invasion of KYSE170 cells (134). Furthermore, small nucleolar RNA host gene 12 (SNHG12), through the miR-195-5p/BCL9 transcription coactivator axis, exhibited inhibitory effects on proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of EC109 cells, along with promoting apoptosis in corresponding xenografts (135). Zinc finger protein 667 (ZNF667)-AS1, via miRNA-1290/prune homolog 2 with BCH domain, attenuated malignancy and growth of ECA109 xenografts, correlating with patient prognosis (136).

In addition, the zinc finger protein 750 inhibited lncRNA DANCR expression to disrupt the miR-4707-3p/FOXC2 axis, thereby attenuating the pro-angiogenic capacity of KYSE150 and KYSE140 cells, as well as corresponding xenografts (137). Furthermore, GATA binding protein 2-AS1, through the miR-940/protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 12 axis, inhibited the proliferation, invasion, migration and EMT of KYSE170 cells and the growth of corresponding xenografts (138). Lastly, ZNF667-AS1, via miR-18b-5p/RAS p21 protein activator 1, inhibited the proliferation and invasion of ECA109 cells (139).

LncRNAs regulated by RNA-protein interactions

LINC00551 interacted with Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), leading to decreased phosphorylation of HSP27 and inhibition of proliferation and invasion of KYSE150 and TE-1 cells. It has also been shown to impede the growth of CDX (TE-1) and to be associated with lymph node metastasis, advanced TNM staging, tumor size, progression-free survival and OS (140). Urothelial cancer associated 1 (UCA1) was reported to bind to heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein F and facilitate selective cleavage of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2), which prevents the conversion of FGFR2 IIIb to FGFR2 IIIc. Activation of FGFR2 IIIc through the PI3K-AKT pathway promoted EMT in EC109 cells while inhibiting proliferation, migration and invasion. In addition, UCA1 suppressed the malignant transformation of Het-1A cells and precancerous lesions in the rat esophagus, thereby inhibiting tumor growth (141). LINC01088 was reported to bind to NPM1, targeting the NPM1-MDM2 proto-oncogene-p53 pathway. This was shown to reduce the expression of mut-p53, restore p53 transcriptional activity, inhibit migration and invasion in KYSE150 and EC9706 cells, and suppress CDX growth (KYSE150 and EC9706). Furthermore, LINC01088 was shown to be associated with vascular tumor embolization and post-operative OS (142).

Epigenetic regulation

Small nucleolar RNA host gene 5 (SNHG5) promoted metastasis associated 1 family member 2 ubiquitination, reversing EMT and inhibiting proliferation, migration and invasion of KYSE30 and KYSE510 cells. It also suppressed CDX growth (KYSE30) and lung metastasis, and was correlated with tumor progression, clinical outcome and survival (143). By inhibiting the interaction between LINC00886 and SIRT7, SNHG5, upregulated histone H3K18 acetylation in the promoter region of E74 like ETS transcription factor 3 (ELF3). This inhibited the binding of ELF3 to the promoter region of miR-144, leading to increased expression of miR-144-3p and suppression of ZEB1 and ZEB2 expression. SNHG5 also inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in ECA109 and KYSE150 cells (144).

Diverse functions

Cancer Susceptibility 2 upregulated suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) expression through the miR-155/SOCS1 ceRNA mechanism and bound to SOCS1 to prevent degradation. This inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and cisplatin tolerance of KYSE30 and KYSE150 cells (145). MiR-320 is contained within the novel lncRNA inhibiting proliferation and metastasis (NLIPMT) sequence, and both NLIPMT and miR-320 have been shown to suppress survivin expression, leading to reduced proliferation and migration in KYSE510 cells and promoting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis (20). The NF90 protein was shown to bind to and stabilize pri-miR-548k, increasing the expression of both pri-miR-548k and miR-548k. On the other hand, lncRNA-LET downregulated NF90 and miR-548k expression, creating a regulatory loop. NF90 enhanced HIF1α and VEGF expression, while miR-548k inhibited KLF transcription factor 10 and promoted EGFR expression. LncRNA-LET boosted p53 expression and hindered the proliferation and migration of KYSE30 cells (146).

5. Exosomal lncRNAs

Several lncRNAs have been identified in exosomes, including ZFAS1 (13), LINC01711 (24) and family with sequence similarity 225, member A (FAM225A) (21), which was shown to exert control over ESCC and other cells and tissues from a remote location. For instance, PART1 was found to promote gefitinib resistance in ESCC through exosomes (33). In addition, FAM225A/miR-206/neuropilin and tolloid like 2 and FOXP1 have been indicated to enhance the viability, migration, invasion and angiogenesis, and inhibit apoptosis in ECA109 and TE-1 cells. FOXP1 was also shown to promote the expression of FAM225A (21). Furthermore, the lncRNA Ras association domain family member 8-AS1 found in serum exosomes was found to promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of TE-1 and TE-13 cells, and to be associated with characteristics such as depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, advanced tumor stage and poor prognosis (147). LINC02096, identified in plasma exosomes, was shown to bind to and stabilize MLL1 to enhance H3K4me3 levels in the promoter regions of programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1, thereby promoting the expression of these genes in KYSE70 and KYSE520 cells. This lncRNA also inhibited the infiltration and activation of CD8+ T cells in a huPBMC-NOG-CDX/PDX model (148).

6. Effects of lncRNAs on ESCC progression

The expression of SNHG12 was elevated in CD133+ ESCC, while the SNHG12/miR-6835-3p/BMI1 proto-oncogene, polycomb ring finger axis promoted proliferation, migration and EMT in EC109 (CD133+) and KYSE410 (CD133+) cells. In addition, SNHG12 recruitment of IGF2BP2 enhanced the stability of β-catenin mRNA (149).

SOX2OT, containing the intron SOX2, was upregulated in ESCC and was shown to enhance the growth, proliferation and cisplatin resistance of KYSE150 and KYSE450 cells (150).

LINC00657 expression was increased in ESCC cells after radiotherapy, promoting the growth of cisplatin-resistant cells by mediating the miR-615-3p/JunB proto-oncogene, AP-1 transcription factor subunit ceRNA mechanism. This has been demonstrated to enhance migration, proliferation and radiotherapy resistance of KYSE cells (151). Peptides encoded by lncRNA lysine demethylase 4A-AS1 could increase reactive oxygen species levels, reduce the mitochondrial membrane potential and inhibit the viability and migration of KYSE150 and TE-1 cells (152). TAM secreted TNFα, which has been reported to induce the expression of lncRNA macrophage-associated long noncoding RNA in TE-9 and TE-15 cells. Furthermore, MALR was demonstrated to bind to the dsRBD1 domain of ILF3, which enhanced ILF3 stabilization and liquid-liquid phase separation. This led to the activation of the HIF1α signaling pathway, promoting aerobic glycolysis activity, angiogenesis and the growth of CDX (TE-9), and had an influence on patient prognosis (153). E2F transcription factor 1 activated the expression of LINC01224, which in turn mediated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through miR-6884-5p/dishevelled segment polarity protein 3. This promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of TE-10 and KYSE30 cells (154). Upon stimulation with Wnt3a, β-catenin was shown to act as a cofactor of FUS to promote the generation of lncRNA DGCR5-S, which in turn promoted inflammation in PDX and CDX (KYSE140 and KYSE180) by inhibiting ZFP36 ring finger protein dephosphorylation (155). SOX2 directly activated the transcription of lncRNA KTN1-AS1, which could interact with RB binding protein 4, chromatin remodeling factor (RBBP4) to enhance the binding of RBBP4 and histone deacetylase 1. This promoted the proliferation, invasion and EMT of KYSE150 cells and enhanced the growth of CDX (KYSE150) cells (156).

7. Future perspectives

In recent years, studies on the function of lncRNAs in ESCC have predominantly focused on individual lncRNAs that are significantly upregulated in ESCC and their ceRNA mechanisms. References to online databases such as miRcode (http://www.mircode.org/) and starbase (starbase.sysu.edu.cn) have greatly aided in the functional study of lncRNAs. However, bioinformatics predictions based on available data can only offer preliminary references. Validation of the ceRNA mechanism primarily relies on the dual-luciferase reporter system, with auxiliary validation through real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and western blot (WB) analysis potentially required. Validation is typically performed on exogenous cells through in situ mutagenesis or knocking down theoretical binding sites, making the validation method relatively limited in scope.

Furthermore, functional studies focusing on RNA-protein binding regulation and epigenetic regulation have also been explored. Initial RNA pull-down assays and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis often yield numerous potentially interacting proteins, necessitating extensive time and effort for validation. The complexity of the validation process, despite available bioinformatics analysis and prediction databases, calls for modifications as research progresses. As mechanisms are being further explored, a substantial workload is required to support continued research.

One suggestion for future research is to mutate or knock out theoretical binding sites in situ and observe resulting phenotypic differences. In addition, investigating RNA-protein binding sites to analyze binding patterns and spatial conformation and construct molecular interaction models for functional studies could provide valuable insight.

While numerous studies focus on post-expression functional studies of lncRNAs in gene expression regulation, fewer studies have explored the regulation of lncRNA expression itself. The rationale behind cells expressing lncRNAs for gene regulation instead of miRNAs or direct regulation using cis- or trans-acting factors remains unclear. Another potential research avenue is exploring the use of lncRNAs as reinforcing elements to further up- or downregulate gene expression.

8. Conclusions

This review provides a brief overview of the lncRNAs and their mechanisms of action in ESCC in recent years (Tables I and II). Although research on these lncRNAs in ESCC is still in the early stages, there is potential for further exploration. The significance of lncRNA expression and their clinical roles in vivo are still evolving, with a focus on their regulatory functions in tumorigenesis, metastasis, progression and drug resistance in ESCC (Fig. 1). Through continued research, the current understanding of the potential roles of lncRNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of ESCC may be enhanced.

Figure 1 Dysregulation of lncRNAs involved in the development of ESCC. Refer to Data S1 for the full definitions of gene names. ESCC, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma; lncRNA, long non-coding RNA; EMT, epithelial to mesenchymal transition; ceRNA, competing endogenous RNA; miR, microRNA.

Table I List of lnRNAs upregulated in esophageal cell squamous carcinoma.

Table I

List of lnRNAs upregulated in esophageal cell squamous carcinoma.

LncRNA	Target	Oncological significance	Clinicopathological features influenced by lncRNA	(Refs.)
FAM83A-AS1	miR-214/CDC25B	Proliferation, migration invasion	TNM staging, tumor differentiation grading	(1)
ZFAS1	miR-124/STAT3	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(2)
TUG1	miR-498/CDC42	Proliferation, invasion	ND	(3)
miR205HG	miR-214/SOX4	Cell cycle, proliferation, invasion, migration	Tumor size, lymphatic metastasis	(4)
OIP5-AS1	miR-1297	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(5)
DLEU1	miR-671-5p/HMGA1	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(6)
LOC146880	miR-328-5p/FSCN1	Proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT, liver metastasis	ND	(7)
LINC00680	miR-423-5p/PAK6	Proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion	Tumor volume, tumor stage, prognosis	(8)
LINC01711	miR-326/FSCN1	Proliferation migration, invasion, growth	ND	(9)
HEIH	miR-4458/PBX3	Viability, invasion	ND	(10)
GACAT3	miR-149/FOXM1	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(11)
HNF1A-AS1	miRNA-298/TCF4	EMT, stem cell stemness	ND	(12)
AFAP1-AS1	miR-498/VEGFA	Growth, migration	ND	(13)
LINC00467	miR-485-5p/DPAGT1	Proliferation	ND	(14)
EGFR-AS1	miR-145/ROCK1	Migration, invasion	Overall survival time	(15)
SNHG17	miR-338-3p/SOX4	Proliferation, invasion, EMT	ND	(16)
MNX1-AS1	miR-34a/SIRTI	Grow, migration, invasion, cell cycle	ND	(17)
THAP9-AS1	miR-335-5p/SGMS2	Grow, migration, invasion, facilitation of EMT	Survival	(18)
MAFG-AS1	miR-765/PDX1	Proliferation, migration, invasion, aerobic glycolysis	ND	(19)
SNHG6	miR-101-3p/EZH2	Apoptosis	ND	(20)
FAM83H-AS1	miR-10a-5p/Girdin	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	TNM staging, pathologic staging, lymph node metastasis	(21)
CASC15	miR-33a-5p/PTGS2	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(22)
JPX	miR-516b-5p/VEGFA	Growth, angiogenesis, migration, invasion	ND	(23)
SNHG6	miR-186-5p/HIF1α	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(24)
LINC00858	miR-425-5p/ABL	Proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT	ND	(25)
DANCR	miR-33a-5p/ZEB1	Proliferation, metastasis	Prognosis	(26)
BCAR4	miR-139-3p/ELAVL1	Growth, migration, evasion of apoptosis	ND	(27)
C9orF139	miR-661/HDAC11	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(28)
miR31HG	miR-34a/c-Met	Growth, evasion of apoptosis	ND	(29)
LINC01980	miR-190a-5p/MYO5A	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	ND	(30)
THAP9-AS1	miR-133b/SOX4	Proliferation, migration, invasion	Tumor size, TNM staging, lymph node metastasis, cancer prognosis	(31)
MCEI	miR-6759-5p/IGF2	Proliferation, migration, cisplatin resistance, invasion	ND	(32)
NNT-AS1	miR-382-5p	Proliferation, migration	ND	(33)
LUESCC	miR-6785-5p/NRSN2	Proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion	Gender, deep invasion, lymph node metastasis, poor prognosis	(34)
LncSUMO1P3	miR-486-5p/PHD or PHF8	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	ND	(35)
PCAT5	miR-4295/PHF20	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(36)
XIST	miR-34a/ZEB1	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	Metastasis, reduced patients survival	(37)
ZFPM2-AS1	miR-3612/TRAF4	Proliferation, migration, invasion, inhibits apoptosis	ND	(38)
LINC00662	miR-340-5p/HOXB2	Proliferation, migration, invasion	Cancer prognosis	(39)
CCAT2	miR-200b/IGF2BP2	Migration	ND	(40)
BF2-AS1	miR-494/PFN2	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	ND	(41)
LINC00941	miR-877-3p/PMEPA1	Proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT	ND	(42)
LINC00152	miR-153-3p/FYN	Proliferation, colony formation	TNM staging, lymph node metastasis, prognosis	(43)
Psma3-as1	miR-101/EZH2	Proliferation, invasion, migration	Tumor size, distant metastasis, prognosis	(44)
LINC00963	miR-214-5p/RAB14	Proliferation, invasion	TNM staging, metastasis, prognosis	(45)
BBOX1-AS1	miR-506-5p/EIF5A	Proliferation, stem cell stemness	ND	(46)
FOXD2-AS1	miR-204-3p	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(47)
KTN1-AS1	miR-885-5p/STRN3	Proliferation, invasion, EMT	ND	(48)
XIST	miR-129-5p/CCND1	Cell cycle progression, proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(49)
LINC00473	miR-497-5p/PRKAA1	Proliferation, migration, EMT	ND	(50)
NEAT1	miR-590-3p/MDM2	Proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis	ND	(51)
abca12-3	miR-200b-3p/FN1	Migration, invasion, proliferation	Lymph node metastasis, prognosis	(52)
ESCCAL-1	miR-590/LRP6	Growth, invasion, migration	ND	(53)
ROR	miR-145/FSCN1	Migration, invasion	Patient survival	(54)
LOC440173	miR-30d-5p/HDAC9	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	Histological grading, tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage	(55)
LINC00514	miR-378a-5p/SPHK1	Proliferation, invasion	Lymph node metastasis, prognosis	(56)
LINC00473	miR-374a-5p/SPIN1	Radioresistance	TNM staging	(57)
LINC00473	miR-497-5p/CDC25A	Survival, radioresistance	T-stage, lymph node metastasis staging, tumor differentiation grading	(58)
NCK1-AS1	miR-133b/ENPEP	Proliferation, invasion, migration	ND	(59)
LIPH-4	miR-216b/IGF2BP2	Growth, cell cycle	Tumor size, prognosis	(60)
TTTY15	miR-337-3p/JAK2	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(61)
LINC01232	miR-654-3p/HDGF	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(62)
LINC00152	miR-107/Rab10	Migration, invasion	ND	(63)
ROR	miR-204-5p/MDM2	Activity, proliferation	ND	(64)
BCAR4	miR-181c-5p/LASP1	Migration, invasion	ND	(65)
BBOX1-AS1	miR-513a-3p/SLC7A11	Proliferation, invasion, migration	ND	(66)
PTPRG-AS1	miR-599/PDK1	Proliferation, migration, glycolysis, stem cell stemness	ND	(67)
AGPG	PFKFB3	Cell cycle progression	ND	(68)
SLC25A21-AS1	NPM1	Tumor growth, migration, resistance to cisplatin	Tumor grade, overall patient survival	(69)
LINC01554	G3BP2	Migration, invasion	ND	(70)
LINC00239	MBP-1	Proliferation, metastasis, invasion, EMT	ND	(71)
SNHG16	EIF4A3	Tumor growth, migration	Tumor differentiation, T staging	(72)
BAALC-AS1	G3BP2	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(73)
DGCR5	SRSF1	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(74)
DLEU1	DYNLL1	Inhibition of apoptosis, promotion of DDP resistance	ND	(75)
GK-IT1	USP6	Proliferation, invasion, migration, autophagy	Clinical staging, prognosis	(76)
SNHG17	c-Jun	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	Survival	(77)
ESCCAL-1	Gal-1	Tumor growth, migration, cell cycle	ND	(78)
LBX2-AS1	ZEB1	Migration, EMT	ND	(79)
LINC00337	E2F4	Autophagy, cisplatin resistance	ND	(80)
LINC01305	IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3	Migration, proliferation	ND	(81)
LINC01296	EZH2	Proliferation, clone formation, migration, invasion	Lymph node metastasis, TNM staging, overall survival	(82)
NRSN2-AS1	PGK1	Proliferation, migration, invasion	Survival	(83)
TMEM44-AS1	IGF2BP2	Ferroptosis, proliferation, invasion, metastasis	ND	(84)
PDIA3P1	OCT4	Proliferation, invasion, metastasis, stem cell stemness	ND	(85)
G077640	H2AX	Glycolysis metabolism, promotion of proliferation, migration	ND	(86)
HOXC-AS1	IGF2BP2	Proliferation, migration	ND	(87)
LINC00941	ILF2 and YBX1	Proliferation, stem cell differentiation, migration, invasion	ND	(88)
DUXAP10	EZH2	Proliferation, metastasis, cell cycle progression, inhibition of apoptosis	ND	(89)
FOXP4-as1	FOXP4	Proliferation, invasion, migration	Lymph node metastasis, TNM staging	(90)
TMPO-as1	FUS	Proliferation, metastasis	Survival	(91)
LINC01419	GSTP1	Proliferation, 5-FU resistance	ND	(92)
LEF1-AS1	PDCD5	Proliferation	Overall survival	(93)
SLC25A21-as1	SLC25A21	Tryptophan catabolism	ND	(69)
PCNA-as1	miR-2467-3p/PCNA	Proliferation, invasion, migration	ND	(94)
LINC00022	p21	Cell cycle progression, proliferation	ND	(95)
CASC8	hnRNPL	Cisplatin resistance	Prognosis	(96)
CASC15	SIM2	Proliferation	Prognosis	(97)
HCP5	HK2 mRNA	Proliferation, invasion, Warburg	Tumor volume, TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, survival time	(98)
HCP5	miR-216a-3p/PDK1	Radiotherapy resistance	ND	(99)
LINC00963	miR-10a/SKA1	Cisplatin resistance	ND	(100)
NRON	miR-31	Cisplatin resistance	ND	(101)
Linc01614	miR-4775	Cisplatin resistance	ND	(102)
HCP5	VAMP3	Cisplatin resistance	ND	(103)
LINK-A	CDK1	Glycolysis, cisplatin resistance	ND	(104)
SOX2OT	Not known	Stem cell-related genes, sphere formation ability, docetaxel resistance	ND	(105)
NORAD	pri-miR-199a	Radioresistance	ND	(106)
NORAD	Ago2	Cisplatin resistance	ND	(107)
LincIN	NF90	Growth, migration, invasion	Invasion, lymph node metastasis, TNM staging, prognosis	(108)
LINC02042	c-Myc mRNA	Viability, invasion, CDX growth, lung metastasis	ND	(109)
FOXP4-as1	FOXP4	Proliferation	ND	(110)
LINC01004	SPI	Ferroptosis, radioresistance, immunosuppression	ND	(111)
LINC00858	ZNF184	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(112)
CTC-490G23.2	CD44 pre-mRNA and PTBP1	Invasion	ND	(113)
LINC02820	SF3B3	Migration, invasion	ND	(114)
PCAT6	Not known	Proliferation, migration, invasion, stem cell stemness	Prognosis, clinical features, immune expansion	(115)

[i] Please refer to Data S1 for the full definitions of gene/protein names. EMT, epithelial to mesenchymal transition; lncRNA, long non-coding RNA; miR, microRNA; ND, not determined.

Table II List of lncRNAs downregulated in esophageal cell squamous carcinoma.

Table II

List of lncRNAs downregulated in esophageal cell squamous carcinoma.

LncRNA	Target	Oncological significance	Clinicopathological features influenced by lncRNA	(Refs.)
KLF3-AS1	miR-185-5p/KLF	Clone formation ability, invasion, migration	ND	(116)
PART1	miR-18a-5p/SOX6	Proliferation, invasion	TNM staging, lymph node metastasis, prognosis	(117)
MTX2-6	miR-574-5p/SMAD4	Proliferation	ND	(118)
LET	miR-93-5p or miR-106b-5p/SOCS4	Viability	ND	(119)
WDFY3-AS2	miR-2355-5p/SOCS2	Proliferation, invasion, EMT	TNM staging, lymph node metastasis, prognosis	(120)
RPL34-AS1	miR-575/ACAA2	Proliferation, clone formation, invasion, migration	Overall survival	(121)
LINC00261	miR-545-3p/MT1M	Proliferation, cisplatin resistance	ND	(122)
TMEM161B-AS1	miR-23a-3p/HIF1AN	Proliferation, invasion, glycolysis, reduces glucose consumption, lactate production	TNM staging, lymph node metastasis, prognosis	(123)
TOB1-AS1	miR-103a-2-5p/TOB1	Growth, migration, invasion	ND	(124)
SNHG12	miR-195-5p/BCL9	Proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion	ND	(125)
ZNF667-AS1	miR-1290/PRUNE2	Growth	Prognosis	(126)
DANCR	miR-4707-3p/FOXC2	Pro-angiogenic capacity	ND	(127)
GATA2-AS1	miR-940/PTPN12	Proliferation, invasion, migration, EMT	ND	(128)
ZNF667-AS1	miR-18b-5p/RASA1	Proliferation, invasion	ND	(129)
LINC00551	HSP27	Proliferation, invasion	Lymph node metastasis, advanced TNM stage, tumor size, progression survival, overall survival	(130)
UCA1	hnRNP F	EMT, proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(131)
LINC01088	NPM1	Growth, migration, invasion	Vascular tumor embolization, postoperative overall survival time	(132)
SNHG5	MTA2	EMT, proliferation, migration, invasion, lung metastasis	Tumor progression, clinical outcome, survival	(133)
LINC00886	SIRT7	Proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT	ND	(134)
CASC2	miR-155/SOCS1	Proliferation, migration, invasion, cisplatin resistance	ND	(135)
NLIPMT	Survivin	Proliferation, migration, promotion of cell cycle arrest, apoptosis	ND	(136)
lncRNA-LET	NF90 and miR-548k	Proliferation, migration	ND	(137)
FAM225A	miR-206/NETO2 and FOXP1	Viability, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, inhibition of apoptosis	ND	(138)
RASSF8-AS1	Not known	Proliferation, migration, invasion	Invasion, lymph node metastasis, advanced tumor stage, poor prognosis	(139)
LINC02096	MLL1	Infiltration, activation of CD8+ T cells	ND	(140)
SNHG12	miR-6835-3p/BMI1	Proliferation, migration, EMT	ND	(141)
SOX2OT	Not known	Growth, proliferation, cisplatin resistance	ND	(142)
LINC00657	miR-615-3p/JunB	Migration, proliferation, radiotherapy resistance	ND	(143)
KDM4A-AS1	Peptides	Viability, migration	ND	(144)
MALR	ILF3	Aerobic glycolysis activity, angiogenesis, growth	Prognosis	(145)
LINC01224	miR-6884-5p/DVL3	Proliferation, migration, invasion	ND	(146)
DGCR5-S	TTP	Inflammation	ND	(147)
KTN1-AS1	RBBP4	Proliferation, invasion, EMT	ND	(148)

[i] Please refer to Data S1 for the full definitions of gene/protein names. EMT, epithelial to mesenchymal transition; lncRNA, long non-coding RNA; miR, microRNA; NF90, interleukin enhancer binding factor 3; ND, not determined.

The role of lncRNAs in ESCC can be better understood by comparing them to studies of lncRNAs in other diseases. Utilizing databases such as The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus, differentially expressed lncRNAs in ESCC can be identified for further transcriptome analysis through library construction. Mechanistic studies of lncRNAs typically involve bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation to verify predictive models. This includes analyzing expression levels and bioinformatics in clinical ESCC tissues, followed by molecular function verification using techniques such as MS, qPCR and WB. Functional validation of lncRNAs can be performed by manipulating their expression in ESCC cell lines and confirming these findings in animal models, such as the CDX model.

While studies on individual lncRNAs have focused on their roles in tumor proliferation, migration, EMT (Fig. 2) and drug resistance, the complexity of lncRNAs requires further exploration. Due to their long sequences, lncRNAs contain significantly more information than certain shorter biological factors, warranting more in-depth studies. In addition, the same lncRNAs can have different functional roles in various tissues or tumors, a fact often overlooked by researchers. Future analyses are needed to explore the functional and compartmental differences of lncRNAs across different diseases and tumors.

Figure 2 Summary of lncRNAs associated with EMT. Refer to Data S1 for the full definitions of gene names. EMT, epithelial to mesenchymal transition; lncRNA, long non-coding RNA; miR, microRNA.

Supplementary Data

Availability of data and materials

Not applicable.

Authors' contributions

QY, WW and LG prepared the manuscript and reviewed the literature. JY, DL, KYC reviewed and provided critical feedback on the manuscript. SD and JW revised and approved the manuscript for publication. All authors read and approved the final manuscript. Data authentication is not applicable.

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Patient consent for publication

Not applicable.

Competing interests

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Acknowledgements

Not applicable.

Funding

No funding was received.

References