The relationship between plasma microRNAs and serum trace elements levels in primary hyperlipidemia

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Primary hyperlipidemia is a condition characterized by elevated lipid levels.
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in regulating lipid metabolism.
• Trace elements are essential for various biological processes, including metabolic regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between plasma miRNA expression, serum trace element levels, and lipid metabolism in primary hyperlipidemia patients.
• To identify potential biomarkers for primary hyperlipidemia.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 46 primary hyperlipidemia patients and 37 healthy controls.
• Analysis of plasma miRNA expression levels.
• Measurement of serum trace element concentrations (Cobalt, Nickel, Cadmium, Chromium, Iron, Manganese, Selenium, Molybdenum).

Main Results:

• Upregulation of specific miRNAs (miR-33a-5p, miR-370-5p, miR-378a-3p, miR-27a-3p, miR-27a-5p, miR-335-5p) was observed in hyperlipidemic patients.
• Significantly higher levels of Cobalt, Nickel, and Cadmium, and lower levels of Chromium, Iron, Manganese, Selenium, and Molybdenum were found in patients.
• A negative correlation was identified between miR-33a-5p and serum Chromium levels in patients.

Conclusions:

• miR-33a-5p and Chromium may play a role in regulating abnormal lipid homeostasis in primary hyperlipidemia.
• Other identified miRNAs (miR-370, miR-378, miR-27a, miR-335) could serve as potential therapeutic targets for hyperlipidemia treatment.