Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis),
continues to be a major global health concern. Understanding the
molecular intricacies of TB pathogenesis is crucial for developing
effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Circular RNAs
(circRNAs), a class of single-stranded RNA molecules characterized by
covalently closed loops, have recently emerged as potential diagnostic
biomarkers in various diseases. CircRNAs have been demonstrated to
modulate the hosts immunological responses against TB, specifically by
reducing monocyte apoptosis, augmenting autophagy, and facilitating macrophage polarization.
This review comprehensively explores the roles and mechanisms of
circRNAs in TB pathogenesis. We also discuss the growing body of
evidence supporting their utility as promising diagnostic biomarkers for
TB. By bridging the gap between fundamental circRNA biology and TB
diagnostics, this review offers insights into the exciting potential of
circRNAs in combatting this infectious disease.