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Updated: Aug 29, 2025

Digital PCR for Quantifying Circulating MicroRNAs in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Cardiovascular Disease
Published on: July 3, 2018
Does MicroRNA Profile Differ in Early Onset Coronary Artery Disease?
Nihan Kahya Eren1, Emin Karaca2, Fevziye Burcu Şirin3
1Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Katip Çelebi University, İzmir, Turkey.
Circulating microRNAs show altered levels in early-onset coronary artery disease (CAD). Specific microRNAs (miRNAs) are downregulated, while others are upregulated, distinguishing early CAD from healthy individuals and late-onset CAD.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are investigated as biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant health concern, with early-onset cases presenting unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare circulating miRNA levels in patients with early-onset CAD versus healthy controls and late-onset CAD patients.
- To identify specific miRNAs associated with atherosclerosis in early-onset CAD.
Main Methods:
- Plasma samples from 30 early-onset CAD patients, 31 healthy controls, and 30 late-onset CAD patients were analyzed.
- Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to quantify 13 selected atherosclerosis-associated miRNAs.
Main Results:
- Early-onset CAD patients showed downregulated lipometabolism and inflammation-related miRNAs, and upregulated endothelial cell-related miR-126 compared to controls.
- Distinct miRNA profiles were observed between early-onset and late-onset CAD patients, with differences in specific inflammation, lipometabolism, and endothelial cell markers.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are promising biomarkers for the early detection of coronary artery disease.
- The distinct miRNA profiles suggest a potential role in disease pathogenesis and stratification.
Related Concept Videos
Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
MicroRNAs
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests

