RNA-binding proteins in vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a leading cause of global mortality, persisting despite optimal clinical treatments.
• Gene expression is regulated at multiple levels, including post-transcriptional control, which influences cellular function.
• RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are critical regulators of RNA metabolism and gene expression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cell-specific roles of RBPs in vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis.
• To highlight how RBP functions in ASCVD can inform the development of novel therapeutics.
• To provide an overview of RBP involvement across all stages of ASCVD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on cell-specific RBP functions in ASCVD.
• Analysis of emerging evidence on RBPs in vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and immune cells.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on post-transcriptional regulation in atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• RBPs act as key co- and post-transcriptional regulators in vascular cells relevant to ASCVD.
• Specific RBPs influence vascular inflammation and the development of atherosclerosis.
• Cell-specific RBP functions are implicated in various stages of ASCVD pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• RBPs play a crucial role in the cellular mechanisms underlying ASCVD.
• Targeting cell-specific RBPs presents a promising strategy for precision medicine in ASCVD.
• Further research into RBP functions can lead to innovative therapeutic approaches for atherosclerotic disease.