Aging-Associated miR-217 Aggravates Atherosclerosis and Promotes Cardiovascular Dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cardiovascular Biology
• Aging Research

Background:

• MicroRNAs are key gene regulators in biological processes.
• miR-217 is linked to aging but its vascular disease role is unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate miR-217's role in vascular function and atherosclerosis.
• Determine miR-217's potential as a biomarker for vascular aging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an inducible endothelium-specific knock-in mouse model.
• Analyzed vascular function, blood pressure, and atherosclerosis development.
• Performed transcriptome analysis to identify miR-217 targets.
• Assessed human plasma miR-217 as a biomarker.

Main Results:

• Endothelial miR-217 overexpression impaired NO production, induced endothelial dysfunction, hypertension, and worsened atherosclerosis.
• miR-217 promoted coronary artery disease and cardiac dysfunction.
• Inhibiting miR-217 improved vascular function and reduced atherosclerosis.
• miR-217 downregulates eNOS activators (VEGF, apelin receptor pathways).
• Plasma miR-217 correlates with vascular aging and cardiovascular risk.

Conclusions:

• miR-217 is a critical regulator of vascular aging and atherosclerosis.
• Inhibiting miR-217 offers a potential therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular disease.