Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 14, 2025

In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions
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In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions

Published on: October 21, 2022

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The Emerging Role of CircRNAs in Atherosclerosis

Jing Yang1, Shuling Rong1

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province 030000, China.

Current Vascular Pharmacology
|January 9, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are emerging as key players in atherosclerosis, a major cause of death. Understanding their role in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages offers new avenues for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Molecular Biology
  • Atherosclerosis Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of mortality globally, driven by complex cellular mechanisms.
  • Endothelial cell (EC) injury, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) transformation, and macrophage dysfunction are central to its development.
  • Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently gained attention for their significant involvement in disease processes.

Approach:

  • Comprehensive literature review of existing research on atherosclerosis mechanisms.
  • Detailed summary of the roles of endothelial cells (ECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and macrophages in atherosclerosis.
  • Exploration of the specific functions and regulatory pathways of circRNAs in atherosclerotic disease progression.

Key Points:

  • CircRNAs significantly influence ECs, VSMCs, and macrophages, impacting atherosclerosis development.
  • Dysregulation of specific circRNAs is implicated in the cellular and molecular events driving atherosclerosis.
  • Identifying circRNA targets offers potential therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusions:

  • CircRNAs represent a novel and promising target for therapeutic intervention in atherosclerosis.
  • Further research into circRNA mechanisms can lead to innovative treatments for cardiovascular diseases.
  • This review consolidates current understanding to guide future research and clinical applications.

Keywords:
AtherosclerosiscircRNAsendothelial cellsmacrophagesvascular smooth muscle cells

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