Emerging Role of mTOR Signaling-Related miRNAs in Cardiovascular Diseases

Arun Samidurai1, Rakesh C Kukreja1, Anindita Das1

  • 1Pauley Heart Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.

Insights

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway and microRNAs (miRs) interact in cardiovascular diseases. This review details their interplay and therapeutic strategies targeting mTOR and miRs for heart conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • RNA Biology

Background:

  • The mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates crucial cellular functions like growth, proliferation, and metabolism.
  • MicroRNAs (miRs) are key posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression vital for cardiovascular homeostasis.
  • The mTOR pathway is a central regulator in cardiovascular physiology and pathology, integrating various signals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the intricate mechanisms of interaction between the mTOR signaling pathway and miRs in cardiovascular pathophysiology.
  • To summarize current knowledge on the interplay between mTOR and miRs in various heart diseases.
  • To highlight advances in mTOR-targeted therapies and novel miR-based strategies for cardiovascular diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating the mTOR-miR axis in cardiovascular diseases.
  • Analysis of existing research on the roles of mTOR and miRs in myocardial infarction, hypertrophy, fibrosis, heart failure, arrhythmia, inflammation, and atherosclerosis.
  • Evaluation of current clinical trials and emerging therapeutic strategies involving mTOR and miRs.

Main Results:

  • Numerous studies demonstrate a significant interplay between miRNAs and the mTOR signaling circuit in diverse cardiovascular pathologies.
  • The mTOR pathway and miRs are intricately linked, influencing processes such as cell growth, survival, and inflammation in the heart.
  • Both mTOR and miRs represent promising therapeutic targets for managing cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusions:

  • The interaction between the mTOR pathway and miRs is critical in cardiovascular health and disease.
  • Understanding this crosstalk opens avenues for novel therapeutic strategies targeting both mTOR and miRs.
  • Future research and clinical trials focusing on mTOR-miRs hold promise for treating cardiovascular diseases effectively.

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