[miRNA Regulome in Different Atherosclerosis Phenotypes]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Molecular Genetics
• Epigenetics

Background:

• MicroRNA (miRNA) dysregulation is implicated in cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, chronic cerebral ischemia, and ischemic stroke.
• Emerging research focuses on the miRNA regulome, encompassing regulatory elements controlling miRNA expression and their target genes.
• Understanding these regulatory networks is crucial for comprehending disease pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on miRNA expression and its alterations in human atherosclerotic arteries.
• To analyze the role of DNA methylation in miRNA genes within the context of atherosclerosis.
• To investigate the association between genetic variations (SNPs, CNVs) in miRNA genes and clinical complications of atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating miRNA expression, DNA methylation, and genetic variations in atherosclerotic tissues.
• Analysis of data linking miRNA gene alterations to clinical outcomes such as coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke.
• Synthesis of findings related to the miRNA regulome in cardiovascular disease.

Main Results:

• Dysregulated miRNA expression is a common feature in atherosclerotic arteries.
• Aberrant DNA methylation patterns in miRNA genes are associated with atherosclerosis.
• Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and copy number variations (CNVs) in miRNA genes correlate with clinical complications of atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

• Alterations in miRNA expression, DNA methylation, and genetic variations within miRNA genes contribute to the development and progression of atherosclerosis and its clinical sequelae.
• Targeting the miRNA regulome presents a potential therapeutic avenue for cardiovascular diseases.
• Further research into miRNA gene regulation is warranted for improved diagnostics and treatments.