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Suppression of Pro-fibrotic Signaling Potentiates Factor-mediated Reprogramming of Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts into Induced Cardiomyocytes
Published on: June 3, 2018
Epigenetic regulation of cardiac fibrosis
Hui Tao1, Kai-Hu Shi, Jing-Jing Yang
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
Abstract:
Cardiac fibrosis is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix accumulation that ultimately destroys tissue architecture and eventually abolishes normal function. In recent years, despite the underlying mechanisms of cardiac fibrosis are still unknown, numerous studies suggest that epigenetic modifications impact on the development of cardiac fibrosis. Epigenetic modifications control cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and so on. Epigenetic modifications contain three main processes: DNA methylation, histone modifications, and silencing by microRNAs. We here outline the recent work pertaining to epigenetic changes in cardiac fibrosis. This review focuses on the epigenetic regulation of cardiac fibrosis.
Insights
Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone changes, are increasingly linked to cardiac fibrosis. Understanding these epigenetic factors is crucial for developing new treatments for this heart condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cardiac fibrosis involves excessive extracellular matrix buildup, leading to tissue damage and impaired heart function.
- The precise mechanisms driving cardiac fibrosis remain unclear, but epigenetic alterations are implicated.
- Epigenetic modifications regulate key cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and migration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize recent findings on epigenetic modifications in the context of cardiac fibrosis.
- To highlight the role of epigenetic regulation in the development and progression of cardiac fibrosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies focusing on epigenetic mechanisms in cardiac fibrosis.
- Analysis of research concerning DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA-mediated gene silencing.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic modifications are recognized as significant contributors to cardiac fibrosis.
- Key epigenetic processes like DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA activity influence fibrotic development.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic regulation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis.
- Further investigation into these epigenetic changes may reveal novel therapeutic targets for cardiac fibrosis.
