The article discusses the emerging roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cellular processes. Most of the eukaryotic genome is transcribed, producing a complex network of transcripts, including tens of thousands of lncRNAs with little or no protein-coding capacity. These transcripts exhibit cell type-specific expression, localization to subcellular compartments, and association with human diseases. The authors highlight recent studies that have identified various molecular functions of lncRNAs, such as regulating gene expression by affecting nearby genes, serving as structural components, modulating protein activities, and acting as precursors for small RNAs. They also discuss the potential for lncRNAs to function as transcriptional noise or to have functions that have not yet been identified. The article emphasizes the need for further research to understand the full extent of lncRNA functions and their roles in developmental events and diseases.The article discusses the emerging roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cellular processes. Most of the eukaryotic genome is transcribed, producing a complex network of transcripts, including tens of thousands of lncRNAs with little or no protein-coding capacity. These transcripts exhibit cell type-specific expression, localization to subcellular compartments, and association with human diseases. The authors highlight recent studies that have identified various molecular functions of lncRNAs, such as regulating gene expression by affecting nearby genes, serving as structural components, modulating protein activities, and acting as precursors for small RNAs. They also discuss the potential for lncRNAs to function as transcriptional noise or to have functions that have not yet been identified. The article emphasizes the need for further research to understand the full extent of lncRNA functions and their roles in developmental events and diseases.