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Updated: Sep 7, 2025
In Vivo Nanovector Delivery of a Heart-specific MicroRNA-sponge
Published on: June 15, 2018
Specific microRNAs and heart failure: time for the next step toward application?
Radka Sigutova1,2, Lukas Evin3, David Stejskal1
1Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Ostrava and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
Abstract:
A number of microRNAs are involved in the pathophysiological events associated with heart disease. In this review, we discuss miR-21, miR-1, miR-23a, miR-142-5p, miR-126, miR-29, miR-195, and miR-499 because they are most often mentioned as important specific indicators of myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis leading to heart failure. The clinical use of microRNAs as biomarkers and for therapeutic interventions in cardiovascular diseases appears highly promising. However, there remain many unresolved details regarding their specific actions in distinct pathological phenomena. The introduction of microRNAs into routine practice, as part of the cardiovascular examination panel, will require additional clinically relevant and reliable data. Thus, there remains a need for additional research in this area, as well as the optimization and standardization of laboratory procedures which could significantly shorten the determination time, and make microRNA analysis simpler and more affordable. In this review, we aim to summarize the current knowledge about selected microRNAs related to heart failure, including their potential use in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, and options for their laboratory determination.
Insights
Selected microRNAs show promise as biomarkers for heart failure, aiding diagnosis and treatment. Further research and standardized lab methods are needed for clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cardiology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in cardiovascular disease pathophysiology.
- Specific miRNAs are implicated in myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis, and heart failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on selected miRNAs in heart failure.
- To explore their potential in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy.
- To discuss laboratory determination methods.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on specific miRNAs (miR-21, miR-1, miR-23a, miR-142-5p, miR-126, miR-29, miR-195, miR-499).
- Analysis of their association with myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis.
- Evaluation of clinical applications and laboratory techniques.
Main Results:
- Several miRNAs are key indicators of cardiac pathological changes.
- Clinical utility as biomarkers and therapeutic targets is promising but requires more data.
- Standardization of laboratory procedures is essential for routine use.
Conclusions:
- Selected miRNAs hold significant potential for diagnosing and managing heart failure.
- Further research is necessary to overcome current limitations in clinical application.
- Optimized and affordable laboratory analysis methods are crucial for integrating miRNAs into cardiovascular care.
