Sequential changes in expression of long non-coding RNAs THRIL and MALAT1 after ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Inflammation significantly contributes to ischemic stroke (IS) pathophysiology.
• Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), specifically MALAT1 and THRIL, are known to be upregulated in inflammatory and atherosclerotic conditions.
• Understanding the role of these lncRNAs in IS is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the expression profile of MALAT1 and THRIL in patients following ischemic stroke.
• To assess the diagnostic and prognostic potential of these lncRNAs in IS.

Main Methods:

• Observational case-control study conducted in Shiraz, Iran.
• Real-time PCR used to measure sequential changes in circulating MALAT1 and THRIL levels on days 1, 3, and 5 post-IS.
• Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis employed to evaluate diagnostic and prognostic value.

Main Results:

• Significantly higher relative expressions of MALAT1 and THRIL were observed in IS patients compared to controls on days 1, 3, and 5.
• lncRNA expression showed a significant increase by day 5 post-stroke.
• MALAT1 expression positively correlated with time within 24 hours post-stroke (r = 0.27, P = 0.03).
• Logistic regression indicated a positive association between MALAT1, THRIL, and the risk of stroke evolution.
• MALAT1 demonstrated potential as a diagnostic marker with an AUC of 0.78.

Conclusions:

• Significant sequential upregulation of MALAT1 and THRIL expression occurs in the days following ischemic stroke.
• These lncRNAs are positively associated with the risk of stroke evolution.
• MALAT1 shows potential as a diagnostic marker for ischemic stroke and correlates with early time points post-stroke.