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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
Quantification of Monocyte Transmigration and Foam Cell Formation from Individuals with Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
Published on: October 17, 2017
[Research advances in the molecular mechanisms of microRNA-mediated macrophage lipid homeostasis and foam cell
Zhijian Guo1, Yanwei Guo1, Zongzhi Xie2
1The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China.
Abstract:
The progression of atherosclerosis (AS) is intrinsically associated with dysregulated lipid metabolism in macrophages, leading to the formation of foam cells. MicroRNA (miRNA) finely regulates the expression of key genes that govern cholesterol uptake, esterification, and efflux, thereby maintaining lipid homeostasis. Aberrant miRNA expression disrupts this balance and accelerates lipid accumulation. In recent years, the potential of miRNA as a biomarker for early diagnosis and as a target for therapeutic intervention in AS has gained considerable attention. Although miRNA-based strategies have shown encouraging results in preclinical studies, their clinical translation is still limited by inadequate delivery efficiency and off-target effects. Future research should prioritize the development of efficient and highly specific delivery platforms, as well as the integration of miRNA-based therapies with other treatment modalities, to pave the way for precision management of atherosclerosis.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate lipid metabolism in atherosclerosis. Dysregulated miRNA expression accelerates foam cell formation, but challenges remain in clinical translation for diagnosis and therapy.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Atherosclerosis (AS) progression involves dysregulated lipid metabolism in macrophages, leading to foam cell formation.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of genes involved in cholesterol homeostasis, including uptake, esterification, and efflux.
- Aberrant miRNA expression disrupts lipid balance, accelerating lipid accumulation and AS pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of miRNAs in regulating lipid metabolism during atherosclerosis.
- To explore the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for early AS diagnosis.
- To discuss miRNA-based therapeutic strategies for AS and associated challenges.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating miRNA function in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis.
- Analysis of preclinical data on miRNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
- Evaluation of current limitations in miRNA delivery and specificity for clinical application.
Main Results:
- miRNAs play a critical role in maintaining or disrupting lipid homeostasis in macrophages.
- miRNAs show promise as sensitive biomarkers for early atherosclerosis detection.
- Preclinical studies demonstrate the potential of miRNA-based therapies, but clinical translation is hindered.
Conclusions:
- miRNAs are key regulators of lipid metabolism relevant to atherosclerosis.
- Targeting miRNAs offers a potential avenue for AS diagnosis and treatment.
- Overcoming delivery efficiency and off-target effects is essential for clinical miRNA-based strategies in AS management.
