Functional role of long non-coding RNA MALAT1 and HOTAIR in lung cancer

Long noncoding RNAs, particularly MALAT1 and HOTAIR, play a key role in regulating tumorigenesis, and therapeutic response. Current literature indicates their influence on key oncogenic pathways. Yet, the literature remains fragmented and lacks context-dependent roles. A clearer understanding of the mechanisms, and downstream targets is, therefore, warranted. Herein, we provide an updated synthesis that integrates scattered findings on MALAT1 and HOTAIR that have not been addressed in prior studies. We aim to summarize the oncogenic mechanisms of MALAT1 and HOTAIR in lung cancer and evaluate their roles in chemoresistance, metastasis, and immune modulation with an emphasis on their diagnostic and translational potential.