MicroRNAs in Pediatric Primary Hypertension: Promising Biomarkers or Context-Dependent Regulators?-A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Genetics and Epigenetics
• Pediatric Health

Background:

• Hypertension impacts 1.4 billion globally, with 4% of children affected, often by primary hypertension.
• The pathogenesis of primary hypertension is not fully understood, prompting research into epigenetic factors.
• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as key epigenetic regulators influencing gene expression and protein translation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of specific microRNAs in the development of primary hypertension.
• To review the current knowledge on microRNAs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for hypertension.
• To discuss the challenges and limitations in utilizing microRNAs in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on experimental and human studies of microRNA involvement in hypertension.
• Detailed analysis of the significance of microRNA-16, -21, -27a, -27b, -133a, and -145.
• Examination of microRNA targets in vascular and renal systems.

Main Results:

• Specific microRNAs (-16, -21, -27a, -27b, -133a, -145) have demonstrated importance in primary hypertension development.
• MicroRNAs are postulated to influence blood pressure regulation in the vascular wall, smooth muscle cells, and kidneys.
• Evidence suggests microRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of primary hypertension.

Conclusions:

• MicroRNAs represent a highly promising research avenue for understanding primary hypertension.
• Further research is needed to determine if microRNAs can serve as reliable biomarkers for primary hypertension.
• The therapeutic potential of microRNAs in hypertension management requires continued investigation.