MicroRNA regulatory dynamic, emerging diagnostic and therapeutic frontier in atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cardiovascular Research
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AS) is a progressive arterial disease causing global morbidity, driven by vascular dysfunction, lipid issues, and inflammation.
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression implicated in AS pathogenesis.
• miRNAs influence key vascular processes including endothelial function, VSMC plasticity, and macrophage behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of miRNAs in atherosclerotic plaque development.
• To explore the impact of miRNAs on endothelial cells, macrophages, and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in AS.
• To discuss the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic agents for vascular diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on miRNA function in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of miRNA involvement in cellular processes within the vascular wall.
• Examination of current and future clinical applications of miRNA-based strategies.

Main Results:

• miRNAs significantly regulate endothelial function, VSMC phenotype, and macrophage polarization in AS.
• Specific miRNAs are implicated in the development and progression of atherosclerotic plaques.
• miRNAs demonstrate potential as biomarkers for AS diagnosis and as therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

• miRNAs are central players in atherosclerosis pathogenesis, affecting key cell types and inflammatory responses.
• miRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics offer promising avenues for managing vascular diseases.
• Further research into miRNA mechanisms and clinical applications is warranted for effective treatment strategies.