MicroRNA-21 Contributes to Reduced Microvascular Function in Binge Drinking Young Adults

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Molecular Biology
• Vascular Physiology

Background:

• Binge drinking (BD) poses risks for cardiovascular disease.
• MicroRNA-21 (miR21) is elevated in alcohol consumption and cardiovascular disease.
• Understanding miR21's role in BD-related vascular dysfunction is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate vasodilatory responses in young adult binge drinkers (BDs).
• To assess the impact of an anti-miR21 inhibitor on microvascular function in BDs.
• To determine if miR21 inhibition can restore impaired vasodilation.

Main Methods:

• Resistance arteries (RAs) were isolated from adipose tissue of BDs and abstainers.
• RAs were treated with an anti-miR21 inhibitor or a negative control.
• Vessel diameter changes in response to flow and acetylcholine were measured using video microscopy.

Main Results:

• BDs exhibited reduced flow-mediated and acetylcholine-induced dilation compared to abstainers.
• Anti-miR21 treatment restored vasodilation in BDs, but not in abstainers.
• Vascular miR21 levels were significantly higher in BDs, indicating increased endogenous miR21.

Conclusions:

• Elevated endogenous miR21 in young BDs contributes to impaired microcirculatory vasodilation.
• Targeting miR21 may offer a therapeutic strategy for alcohol-induced vascular dysfunction.
• This study highlights miR21 as a key mediator in the vascular consequences of binge drinking.