LncRNA PANDAR in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Expression Patterns, Molecular Mechanisms, Clinical Relevance, and Therapeutic Implications

Abstract

Context: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, characterized by a poor prognosis due to late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. Emerging evidence highlights the pivotal role of long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) in tumorigenesis, presenting potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Evidence Acquisition: This narrative review synthesizes current research on PANDAR expression patterns, molecular functions, and clinical relevance in HCC. Studies indicate that PANDAR is upregulated in HCC tumor tissues compared to adjacent non-tumor tissues, suggesting its involvement in tumor progression. Results: Functionally, PANDAR suppresses apoptosis, promotes cell proliferation, and interacts with key oncogenic pathways, contributing to HCC pathogenesis. Conclusions: Moreover, its potential as a prognostic biomarker is examined, with evidence linking PANDAR expression to patient survival outcomes. Despite promising findings, challenges remain in fully elucidating PANDAR’s molecular mechanisms in HCC. Further research exploring therapeutic interventions targeting PANDAR could open new avenues for personalized treatment strategies.