Diagnostic value of lncRNAs LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 and their regulatory roles in macrophage immune response in tuberculosis

Objectives To determine the usefulness of LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 as potential biomarkers for latent tuberculosis (LTB) and active tuberculosis (ATB), as well as their effect on Mycobacterium (Mtb) infection. Methods The expression levels of LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 in the health, patients with LTB and ATB were detected by qRT-PCR. The ROC curves were constructed to show their potential as biomarkers. The intracellular survival assays for Mtb and the levels of immune-related cytokines were determined to discover the effect of LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 on Mtb infection. The relationships of miR-485-5p with LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 were explored. Results LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 levels were significantly elevated in patients with ATB and LTB, and Mtb-infected macrophages. LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 can distinguish the LTB from the health and ATB from LTB. LARS2-AS1 and LINC00152 knock-down reduced the intracellular Mtb survival and induced cellular immune response after Mtb challenge. miR-485-5p was a targeting miRNA for LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1. Conclusions LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 can be considered as potential biomarkers for tuberculosis disease. LINC00152 and LARS2-AS1 have anti-Mtb effects.