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Epigenetic Modifications and Non-Coding RNA in Diabetes-Mellitus-Induced Coronary Artery Disease: Pathophysiological
Francesca Romana Prandi1,2, Dalgisio Lecis1, Federica Illuminato1
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a glucose metabolism disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia resulting from a deficit of insulin production and/or action. DM affects more than 1 in 10 adults, and it is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) accounts for two thirds of the overall deaths in diabetic patients, with coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic cardiomyopathy as the main contributors. Hyperglycemic damage on vascular endothelial cells leading to endothelial dysfunction represents the main initiating factor in the pathogenesis of diabetic vascular complications; however, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are still not entirely understood. This review addresses the current knowledge on the pathophysiological links between DM and CAD with a focus on the role of epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and noncoding RNA control. Increased knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms has contributed to the development of new pharmacological treatments ("epidrugs") with epigenetic targets, although these approaches present several challenges. Specific epigenetic biomarkers may also be used to predict or detect the development and progression of diabetes complications. Further studies on diabetes and CAD epigenetics are needed in order to identify possible new therapeutic targets and advance personalized medicine with the prediction of individual drug responses and minimization of adverse effects.
Insights
Diabetes mellitus (DM) and coronary artery disease (CAD) share complex links, with epigenetics playing a key role. Understanding these epigenetic modifications offers potential for new treatments and personalized medicine for diabetic cardiovascular complications.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder causing chronic hyperglycemia.
- DM significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly coronary artery disease (CAD).
- Endothelial dysfunction due to hyperglycemia is a primary factor in diabetic vascular complications, but mechanisms require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the pathophysiological links between DM and CAD.
- To focus on the role of epigenetic modifications in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiovascular complications.
- To explore the potential of epigenetics in developing novel therapeutic strategies and biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on DM, CAD, and epigenetics.
- Analysis of the roles of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs.
- Examination of the implications for pharmacological treatments and diagnostic biomarkers.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs, are implicated in the pathophysiology linking DM and CAD.
- Epigenetic targets are being explored for new pharmacological treatments ('epidrugs'), though challenges remain.
- Epigenetic biomarkers show promise for predicting and detecting diabetes complications.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial in understanding the interplay between DM and CAD.
- Further research into diabetes and CAD epigenetics is essential for identifying new therapeutic targets.
- Epigenetic insights can advance personalized medicine for managing diabetic cardiovascular disease, including predicting drug responses and minimizing adverse effects.
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