Regulatory Non-Coding RNAs in Familial Hypercholesterolemia, Theranostic Applications

Hani Keshavarz Alikhani1, Mahsa Pourhamzeh1, Homeyra Seydi1

  • 1Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.

Insights

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic condition causing high LDL cholesterol. Non-coding RNAs offer new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for FH and its cardiovascular complications.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a monogenic disorder characterized by elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels.
  • FH significantly increases the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD), necessitating early diagnosis and intervention.
  • Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in regulating cellular processes and as potential biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pathophysiology of FH and current therapeutic strategies.
  • To explore the emerging role of ncRNAs in FH diagnosis and treatment.
  • To compare the advantages and disadvantages of ncRNA-based therapies with conventional treatments for FH.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of FH mechanisms, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approaches.
  • Analysis of studies investigating ncRNAs in LDL-C metabolism and FH.
  • Comparative discussion of ncRNA-based theranostics versus established therapies.

Main Results:

  • FH is driven by genetic defects affecting LDL-C metabolism, leading to premature cardiovascular events.
  • ncRNAs play crucial roles in maintaining LDL-C homeostasis and are implicated in FH pathogenesis.
  • ncRNAs show promise as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for FH.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting ncRNAs presents a novel theranostic avenue for managing FH and its associated cardiovascular risks.
  • ncRNA-based strategies offer potential advantages over conventional treatments but require further investigation.
  • Early identification and intervention using ncRNA biomarkers and therapeutics can improve FH patient outcomes.

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