RNA Signaling in Cellular Plasticity During Homeostasis and Regeneration

This mini-review discusses the role of RNA in cellular plasticity during homeostasis and regeneration, highlighting how endogenous and damage-released RNAs serve as signals that influence cell identity. It examines the function of repetitive-element-derived RNAs and regulatory long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in modulating stem and progenitor cell plasticity across various systems, including hematopoietic, pluripotent, and muscle systems, by linking stress sensing to cell-fate decisions. Additionally, the review addresses extracellular dsRNA/TLR3 signaling and injury-induced lncRNAs in the regeneration of epithelial, neural, cardiac, and vascular tissues, emphasizing how extracellular RNA affects inflammatory and stromal responses. Overall, RNA is portrayed as a crucial regulator of cellular plasticity in development, tissue maintenance, and regeneration.