The role of long non-coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genomics
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major global health burden, with underlying molecular mechanisms incompletely understood.
• Research traditionally focused on protein-coding genes, but recent genomics advances reveal the significance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).
• Altered lncRNA expression is implicated in tissue damage and organ dysfunction, contributing to various diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs in cardiovascular health and disease.
• To discuss the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis and progression of specific CVDs.
• To explore the potential of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers for CVDs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on lncRNAs and CVDs.
• Analysis of regulatory mechanisms governing lncRNA expression and function.
• Examination of lncRNA involvement in diverse cardiovascular conditions.

Main Results:

• lncRNAs play critical roles in the development and progression of various cardiovascular diseases.
• Specific lncRNAs are dysregulated in conditions like coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, heart failure, and cardiomyopathies.
• lncRNAs exhibit tissue-specific expression patterns influenced by internal and external factors.

Conclusions:

• lncRNAs are pivotal in cardiovascular pathophysiology and represent promising diagnostic biomarkers.
• Targeting lncRNAs offers a potential therapeutic strategy for managing cardiovascular diseases.
• Further research into lncRNA regulatory networks is essential for advancing cardiovascular medicine.