Although emerging evidence points to the critical importance of the long noncoding transcriptome in human physiology and pathology, the clinical potential of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as therapeutic and prognostic targets remain largely unexplored. The increasing availability of high-throughput technologies and newly developed computational methodologies is rapidly making it possible to address this gap in our knowledge. However, optimal use of these new capabilities and recognition of their power in transforming the field of lncRNA research requires the formation of new collaborative and training efforts. This conference specifically aims to: 1) Communicate the latest available technologies and developing methodologies for lncRNA functional genetics to the lncRNA community; 2) Promote collaborations and new research directions that will bridge the already thriving lncRNA mechanistic and basic research to the clinical need for novel, effective diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets; 3) Contribute to attracting the attention of biotech and pharmaceutical industry and clinically-oriented funding agencies to the lncRNA field; and 4) Integrate lncRNA research into other biological fields through the joint pairing with the conference on “RNA-Protein Interactions.”
- Long Noncoding RNAs: From Molecular Mechanism to Functional Genetics