Current Gene TherapyCurrent Gene TherapyCurrent Gene Therapy1566-52321875-5631Bentham Science64405810.2174/0115665232284076240207073542Life SciencesResearch ArticleBiogenesis and Function of circRNAs in Pulmonary FibrosisZhangSongziinfo@benthamscience.netHuWenjieinfo@benthamscience.netLvChangjuninfo@benthamscience.netSongXiaodonginfo@benthamscience.netDepartment of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University0105202424539540907012025Copyright ©; 2024, Bentham Science Publishers2024Bentham Science Publishershttps://journals.eco-vector.com/1566-5232/article/view/644058

Pulmonary fibrosis is a class of fibrosing interstitial lung diseases caused by many pathogenic factors inside and outside the lung, with unknown mechanisms and without effective treatment. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism implicated in pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis is urgently needed to develop new and effective measures. Although circRNAs have been widely acknowledged as new contributors to the occurrence and development of diseases, only a small number of circRNAs have been functionally characterized in pulmonary fibrosis. Here, we systematically review the biogenesis and functions of circRNAs and focus on how circRNAs participate in pulmonary fibrogenesis by influencing various cell fates. Meanwhile, we analyze the current exploration of circRNAs as a diagnostic biomarker, vaccine, and therapeutic target in pulmonary fibrosis and objectively discuss the challenges of circRNA- based therapy for pulmonary fibrosis. We hope that the review of the implication of circRNAs will provide new insights into the development circRNA-based approaches to treat pulmonary fibrosis.

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