Inflammatory Factors Induce Thrombosis through the miR-146b-3p/p38MAPK/COX-2 Pathway

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Inflammation Research

Background:

• Inflammatory responses are critical in atherosclerosis development.
• Understanding molecular regulators of inflammation in thrombosis is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between microRNA-146b-3p (miR-146b-3p) and inflammatory factors in thrombosis.
• To elucidate the role of miR-146b-3p in the P38MAPK/COX-2 signaling pathway.

Main Methods:

• THP-1 cells were utilized for in vitro experiments.
• Western blot and real-time PCR were employed to assess protein and mRNA expression levels of COX-2, p38MAPK, and miR-146b-3p.
• Lentiviral vectors were used to manipulate miR-146b-3p expression.

Main Results:

• Angiotensin II (Ang II) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) increased COX-2 expression and p38MAPK phosphorylation.
• miR-146b-3p downregulated COX-2 expression and p38MAPK phosphorylation.
• TNF-α significantly enhanced miR-146b-3p expression.

Conclusions:

• Altered miR-146b-3p expression is linked to inflammation progression in thrombosis via the P38MAPK/COX-2 pathway.
• The miR-146b-3p/p38MAPK/COX-2 axis is a key player in inflammation and arterial thrombosis.