Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are recently discovered small non-coding RNAs consisting of 24-35 nucleotides, usually including a characteristic 5-terminal uridine and an adenosine at position 10. PIWI proteins can specifically bind to the unique structure of the 3' end of piRNAs. In the past, it was thought that piRNAs existed only in the reproductive system, but recently, it was reported that piRNAs are also expressed in several other human tissues with tissue specificity. Growing evidence shows that piRNAs and PIWI proteins are abnormally expressed in various diseases, including cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and ageing, and may be potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review aims to discuss the current research status regarding piRNA biogenetic processes, functions, mechanisms and emerging roles in various diseases.