MicroRNAs and vascular damage in chronic kidney disease: advances and clinical implications

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is closely associated with endothelial dysfunction and vascular calcification, which are major contributors to the development of cardiovascular disease in this population. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and other cellular processes. Recent studies have demonstrated that changes in the levels of several miRNAs are associated with the progression of renal dysfunction. Patients with CKD have reduced levels of miR-126, a microRNA produced by the endothelium that has an atheroprotective function. Reduced miRNA levels that inhibit vascular calcification, such as miR-133a and miR-204-5p, are also found in patients with CKD. These changes may contribute to vascular dysfunction in these patients. Therefore, understanding the profile of microRNAs in the context of CKD may be important for the identification of new biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Given the growing relevance of microRNA analysis, this review addresses recent advances in the study of microRNAs related to vascular dysfunction in CKD and their potential applications in translational clinical practice.