microRNA-130b May Induce Cerebral Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage via Modulating Kruppel-like Factor 4

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play diverse roles in brain diseases.
• Cerebral vasospasm (CVS) is a serious complication following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).
• The specific role of microRNA-130b (miR-130b) in CVS post-SAH requires elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the functional role of miR-130b in the development of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage.
• To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms involving KLF4 and the p38/MAPK signaling pathway.

Main Methods:

• SAH models were established in Sprague Dawley rats.
• Cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells (cVSMCs) were utilized for in vitro studies.
• Transfection with miR-130b mimic/inhibitor, KLF4-targeting vectors, and p38/MAPK pathway modulators were employed.

Main Results:

• Elevated miR-130b and reduced KLF4 expression were observed in SAH patients and rat models.
• miR-130b directly targets and inhibits KLF4, promoting cVSMC proliferation and migration.
• KLF4 suppresses cVSMC proliferation and migration by blocking the p38/MAPK pathway.
• In vivo studies confirmed that reduced miR-130b inhibits CVS post-SAH.

Conclusions:

• miR-130b contributes to cerebral vasospasm post-SAH by targeting KLF4 and activating the p38/MAPK pathway.
• Targeting miR-130b may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for managing CVS after SAH.