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Connecting the Dots: How MicroRNAs Link Asthma and Atherosclerosis

Răzvan-Ionuț Zimbru1,2, Elena-Larisa Zimbru1,2,3, Florina-Maria Bojin1,2,4

  • 1Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|May 7, 2025
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) link asthma and atherosclerosis through shared inflammatory pathways. Targeting these common miRNAs offers potential for integrated treatments and improved patient outcomes for both respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Asthma and atherosclerosis are chronic inflammatory diseases with distinct pathologies.
  • Overlapping inflammatory mechanisms suggest a common regulatory framework may link these conditions.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and potential mediators of this link.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in the interplay between asthma and atherosclerosis.
  • To identify specific miRNAs involved in shared inflammatory pathways, immune regulation, and vascular remodeling.
  • To explore the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for both conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on miRNAs implicated in asthma and atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of miRNA involvement in inflammatory pathways, immune cell function, and vascular remodeling.
  • Discussion of specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-155, miR-21, miR-146a) and their functions.

Main Results:

  • Common miRNAs are involved in modulating inflammatory cytokine production and T cell differentiation.
  • These miRNAs impact both respiratory (asthma) and cardiovascular (atherosclerosis) health.
  • Specific miRNAs like miR-155, miR-21, and miR-146a are highlighted for their roles.

Conclusions:

  • Common miRNAs represent potential biomarkers for both asthma and atherosclerosis.
  • Targeting these shared miRNAs may lead to novel, integrated therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research is needed to validate miRNA-based interventions for combined treatment approaches.
Keywords:
agomir and antagomir therapyasthmaatherosclerosisinflammationmicroRNA (miRNA)

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