Circular RNAs: Functions and Clinical Significance in Cardiovascular Disease

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Cardiology

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) presents a significant global health challenge, contributing to high rates of morbidity and mortality.
• Emerging research highlights the potential involvement of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in the underlying mechanisms of CVD.
• CircRNAs are unique non-coding RNA molecules characterized by a stable, covalently closed loop structure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review current knowledge on circRNA biogenesis, properties, and mechanisms of action.
• To elucidate the roles of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.
• To explore the diagnostic and prognostic potential of circRNAs in CVD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and systematic summary of existing research on circRNAs and CVD.
• Analysis of circRNA functions, including miRNA sponging, protein interaction, transcriptional regulation, and translation.
• Evaluation of circRNA characteristics (stability, expression patterns) for biomarker potential.

Main Results:

• CircRNAs exhibit diverse functions, acting as miRNA sponges, RNA-binding protein sponges, and regulators of transcription and translation.
• Their stability, abundance, and specific expression patterns position circRNAs as promising biomarkers for CVD diagnosis and prognosis.
• Current research suggests significant roles for circRNAs in the complex pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusions:

• CircRNAs play multifaceted roles in CVD pathogenesis through various molecular mechanisms.
• The unique properties of circRNAs offer significant potential for clinical applications in CVD diagnosis and prognosis.
• Further research is expected to uncover more molecular mechanisms and advance the clinical utility of circRNAs in managing cardiovascular diseases.