Human Macrophage Long Intergenic Noncoding RNA, <i>SIMALR</i> , Suppresses Inflammatory Macrophage Apoptosis via NTN1 (Netrin-1)

Abstract

<i>SIMALR</i> is a nonconserved, human macrophage lncRNA expressed in atherosclerosis that suppresses macrophage apoptosis. <i>SIMALR</i> partners with HIF1α (hypoxia-inducible factor 1 subunit alpha) to regulate NTN1, which is a known macrophage survival factor. This work illustrates the importance of interrogating the functions of human lncRNAs and exploring their translational and therapeutic potential in human atherosclerosis.