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ATHENA Study - The Role of Circulating Plasma MicroRNAs in Paediatric Patients with Untreated Primary Hypertension:

Michał Szyszka1, Ceren Eyileten2,3, Jolanta Małyszko4

  • 1Department of Pediatrics and Nephrology, Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.

Kidney & Blood Pressure Research
|June 9, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

MicroRNA-27b and microRNA-133a are underexpressed in hypertensive children, potentially serving as biomarkers for hypertension. MicroRNA-16 may indicate elevated diastolic blood pressure in pediatric hypertension.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The role of microRNAs in pediatric primary hypertension is not well understood.
  • This study investigates specific microRNAs in hypertensive children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the expression of microRNAs (-16, -21, -27a, -27b, -133a, -145) in untreated hypertensive children.
  • To assess microRNA response to aerobic exercise.
  • To correlate microRNA levels with blood pressure and hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD).

Main Methods:

  • Observational, hypothesis-generating study with 56 hypertensive and 59 healthy children.
  • Plasma microRNA levels and clinical parameters measured pre- and post-aerobic exercise.
  • Analysis included blood pressure, vascular function, and HMOD parameters.

Main Results:

  • Hypertensive children showed lower baseline microRNA-27b and microRNA-133a expression.
  • Aerobic exercise increased microRNA-27b, -133a, and -145 in controls, and microRNA-145 in hypertensive children.
  • MicroRNA-16 was a significant predictor of elevated diastolic blood pressure; microRNA-27b showed potential as a biomarker.

Conclusions:

  • MicroRNA-27b and microRNA-133a are underexpressed in pediatric primary hypertension.
  • These microRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers for hypertension in children.
  • MicroRNA-16 may indicate diastolic hypertension in pediatric patients.
Keywords:
AdolescentsAerobic exerciseHypertension-mediated organ damageMicroRNAPrimary hypertension

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