Exosomal non-coding RNAs: key molecules in the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease

Cuixue Ma1,2, Xinyu Gao1,2, Kongwei Li1,2

  • 1Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Molecular Diagnosis and Innovative Drugs Translation of Cardiopulmonary Vascular Diseases, University Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Macao Region on Molecular Targets and Intervene, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.

Peerj
|June 16, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Novel biomarkers are needed for coronary artery disease (CAD) diagnosis. Exosomal non-coding RNAs show promise as unique indicators for CAD, aiding in diagnosis and prognosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biomarker Discovery

Background:

  • Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major global health concern, with increasing incidence due to aging populations and lifestyle shifts.
  • Current CAD biomarkers (e.g., CK-MB, troponins, NT-proBNP) lack specificity and are affected by various physiological factors.
  • The need for unique and reliable biomarkers for accurate CAD diagnosis and prognosis is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of CAD.
  • To highlight the role of exosomal non-coding RNAs as potential novel biomarkers for CAD.
  • To discuss their significance in CAD diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on CAD pathogenesis.
  • Analysis of studies investigating exosomal non-coding RNAs in cardiovascular diseases.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on exosomal non-coding RNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers.

Main Results:

  • Exosomes contain non-coding RNAs, proteins, and lipids, acting as crucial regulators in biological processes.
  • Exosomal non-coding RNAs have been identified as risk factors and key players in CAD.
  • These molecules demonstrate potential as specific biomarkers for CAD diagnosis and prognosis.

Conclusions:

  • Exosomal non-coding RNAs represent a promising avenue for developing novel, specific biomarkers for coronary artery disease.
  • Their role in CAD pathogenesis and potential as diagnostic/prognostic tools warrant further investigation.
  • Future research should focus on validating these exosomal non-coding RNAs for clinical application in CAD management.

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