Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 2, 2026

Digital PCR for Quantifying Circulating MicroRNAs in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Cardiovascular Disease
Published on: July 3, 2018
microRNAs in ischaemic cardiovascular diseases
Simona Greco1, Germana Zaccagnini1, Christine Voellenkle1
1Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, via Morandi 30, 20097 San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
microRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNA molecules that modulate the stability and/or the translational efficiency of specific messenger RNAs. They have been shown to play a regulatory role in most biological processes and their expression is disrupted in many cardiovascular diseases. This review describes studies performed at Policlinico San Donato-IRCCS in cell cultures, animal models, and patients, showing a penetrant role of miRNAs in cell response to hypoxia and in ischaemic cardiovascular diseases. These experiments indicate miRNA as an emerging class of therapeutic targets.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and are crucial in cardiovascular diseases. Studies show miRNAs play a key role in cellular responses to hypoxia and ischemic conditions, highlighting their therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cardiovascular Research
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNA regulators impacting gene expression.
- miRNA dysregulation is implicated in various cardiovascular diseases.
- Cardiovascular research increasingly focuses on miRNA's role in disease pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review studies on miRNA function in cardiovascular diseases.
- To investigate the role of miRNAs in cellular response to hypoxia.
- To explore miRNA as a therapeutic target for ischemic cardiovascular diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies conducted at Policlinico San Donato-IRCCS.
- Analysis of data from cell cultures, animal models, and human patients.
- Examination of miRNA expression and function in disease contexts.
Main Results:
- miRNAs demonstrate a significant role in cellular responses to hypoxia.
- miRNAs are critically involved in the pathophysiology of ischemic cardiovascular diseases.
- Evidence supports the involvement of specific miRNAs in disease progression.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are key regulators in cardiovascular pathophysiology, particularly in hypoxia and ischemia.
- miRNAs represent a promising and emerging class of therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases.
- Further research into miRNA-based therapies is warranted for treating ischemic heart conditions.
Related Concept Videos
Ischemic Heart Disease: Overview
Atherosclerosis, the primary malefactor, orchestrates this dangerous condition. It manifests as the accumulation of fatty deposits, akin to insidious plaques, within arterial walls. As time elapses, these plaques metamorphose, hardening and...
MicroRNAs
MicroRNAs
Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology

