Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026
09:09
Single Nuclei Isolation from Coronary Endarterectomy Tissue of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patients
Published on: April 3, 2026
MicroRNAs in the atherosclerotic plaque
Emma Raitoharju1, Niku Oksala, Terho Lehtimäki
1Department of Clinical Chemistry, Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Fimlab Laboratories and University of Tampere, School of Medicine, Finland;
Clinical Chemistry
|June 5, 2013
Summary
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show distinct expression patterns in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Blood miRNA profiles accurately reflect expression in atherosclerotic plaques, indicating potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression.
- Altered miRNA expression is linked to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and atherosclerosis.
- Blood miRNA profiles change with CVD progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate miRNA profiles in atherosclerosis.
- To correlate in vitro/in vivo findings with human atherosclerotic plaques.
- To review clinical implications of miRNAs in atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Summarized animal and cell experiments on miRNA profiles in atherosclerosis.
- Analyzed changes in blood miRNA profiles of individuals with CVD.
- Surveyed miRNA expression in human atherosclerotic plaques.
Main Results:
- Specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-126, -145, -210) showed differential expression in CVD patients' blood.
- Blood miRNA expression patterns mirrored those in atherosclerotic plaques.
- In vitro-identified miRNAs were expressed in plaques consistent with predictions.
Conclusions:
- miRNA profiles from various studies reflect human atherosclerotic plaque expression.
- miRNAs hold promise as clinical biomarkers and drug targets for atherosclerosis.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Atherosclerosis I: Introduction
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
01:38Inflammation
Overview
01:26Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) originates from a series of events that impair the function of coronary arteries, the blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The pathophysiology of CAD is closely linked to atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory and lipid-driven condition affecting the vascular endothelium.1. Endothelial DamageThe process begins with damage to the vascular endothelium, which serves as a protective barrier between the blood and the vessel...
01:26Atherosclerosis III: Management
Management of atherosclerosis involves an integrated strategy encompassing pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, lifestyle changes, and nutrition therapy to address the multifactorial nature of the disease.Pharmacological TherapyA cornerstone of atherosclerosis management is the use of pharmacological agents. Statins, such as atorvastatin, are pivotal in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes an initial step in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in...
01:30Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) predominantly results from atherosclerosis, which involves the accumulation of fatty deposits, or plaques, within the walls of arteries. This causes them to narrow and harden, significantly reducing blood flow. PAD predominantly affects the legs, particularly the arteries supplying the thighs and calves. In rare cases, it may involve other arteries, including those in the arms.Etiology of PAD:The principal cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, which results from fatty...
01:27Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder that leads to the thickening and narrowing of arterial walls due to plaque buildup. This condition can cause various symptoms depending on the arteries affected:Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This condition affects the coronary arteries and may lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath (dyspnea), heart attacks, and other heart disease symptoms.Cerebrovascular Disease: This affects blood flow to the brain, causing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)...