ABSTRACT
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding singlestranded covalently closed RNA molecules that are considered important as regulators of gene expression at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. These molecules have been implicated in the initiation and progression of multiple human diseases, ranging from cancer to inflammatory and metabolic diseases, including diabetes mellitus and its vascular complications. The present article aimed to review the current knowledge on the biogenesis and functions of circRNAs, as well as their role in cell processes associated with diabetic nephropathy. In addition, novel potential interactions between circRNAs expressed in renal cells exposed to highglucose concentrations and the transcription factors cJun and cFos are reported.
