Targeting DNA damage response in cardiovascular diseases: from pathophysiology to therapeutic implications

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cardiology
• Genetics

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) involve complex genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic factors.
• Growing evidence links significant DNA damage to various cardiovascular disorders.
• The DNA damage response (DDR) is a critical cellular process involving DNA repair, cell cycle arrest, senescence, and apoptosis.

Approach:

• This review examines the molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and repair in CVDs.
• It explores the role of DDR in specific cardiac cell types and their contribution to disease.
• The review highlights recent therapeutic strategies targeting DNA damage signaling pathways.

Key Points:

• Transient DDR can be beneficial for cardiovascular function, but persistent DDR exacerbates CVDs.
• DNA damage and DDR are implicated in the initiation and progression of heart and vascular diseases.
• Targeting DNA damage and DDR pathways presents a promising therapeutic avenue for cardiovascular dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the intricate relationship between DNA damage, DDR, and CVDs is essential.
• Therapeutic interventions focused on modulating DNA damage and DDR hold potential for improving cardiovascular health outcomes.
• Further research into DDR mechanisms in cardiac cells could unlock novel treatment strategies.