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Published on: June 23, 2013

MicroRNAs as master regulators of macrophage function in atherosclerosis: From polarization to therapeutic potential

Yuji Zhan1,2, Xinxing Song3, Yan Fang1

  • 1Graduate School of the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China.

Iscience
|May 25, 2026
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of macrophage function in atherosclerosis. Targeting these miRNAs in macrophages offers a promising therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular disease.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Molecular Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease leading to cardiovascular morbidity.
  • Macrophage dysfunction is central to atherosclerosis development.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators of macrophage biology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of miRNAs in orchestrating macrophage functions relevant to atherosclerosis.
  • To highlight therapeutic potential of targeting miRNA networks in macrophages.
  • To discuss challenges and innovative solutions for miRNA-based atherosclerosis therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review integrating current evidence on miRNA regulation of macrophage biology.
  • Analysis of miRNA roles in macrophage polarization, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and cell death.
  • Examination of therapeutic strategies and translational challenges for miRNA interventions.

Main Results:

  • miRNAs significantly influence macrophage polarization (e.g., miR-155 M1, miR-126 M2).
  • miRNAs regulate inflammatory signaling (NF-κB/TLR), lipid handling (CD36, ABCA1/ABCG1), and cell death pathways.
  • Targeting miRNA networks in macrophages shows potential to reduce lipid accumulation, inflammation, and plaque instability.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs are master regulators of macrophage biology in atherosclerosis.
  • miRNA-based therapies offer a novel approach for atherosclerosis treatment.
  • Overcoming delivery and stability challenges is crucial for clinical translation of miRNA therapeutics.
Keywords:
DiseaseMolecular interactionTherapeutics

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