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Epigenetic mechanisms shaping cytoskeleton dynamics in cardiovascular diseases

Xian-Ming Tao1, Peng Liu1, Sui Mao1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.

Ageing Research Reviews
|July 20, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Age-related epigenetic changes impact the cytoskeleton, driving cardiovascular remodeling and disease. Understanding these mechanisms is key for developing precision medicine strategies for cardiovascular conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Epigenetics
  • Cellular Mechanics

Background:

  • The cytoskeleton is crucial for cardiovascular cell structure and function.
  • Cytoskeletal dysregulation contributes to cardiovascular diseases like fibrosis and arrhythmias.
  • Epigenetic alterations, hallmarks of aging, interact with the cytoskeleton and influence cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the interplay between age-related epigenetic changes and cytoskeletal dynamics.
  • To elucidate molecular pathways linking epigenetics, cytoskeleton, and cardiovascular remodeling.
  • To identify therapeutic targets and future research directions for cardiovascular precision medicine.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of recent studies on epigenetics and cytoskeleton in cardiovascular disease.
  • Analysis of molecular pathways involved in cardiomyocyte, vascular smooth muscle cell, and fibroblast remodeling.
  • Discussion of therapeutic strategies and biomarkers.

Main Results:

  • Age-related epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling) directly influence cytoskeletal dynamics and nuclear mechanics.
  • These changes drive pathological remodeling in cardiomyocytes, vascular smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts.
  • Synergy between cytoskeletal regulation and epigenetics is a core feature of cardiovascular aging and disease.

Conclusions:

  • Age-related epigenetic alterations are critical drivers of cardiovascular remodeling.
  • Targeting the epigenetic-cytoskeletal axis offers potential for novel cardiovascular therapies.
  • Further research is needed to establish a foundation for precision medicine in cardiovascular disease.

Keywords:
AgeingCardiovascular diseasesCytoskeletonEpigeneticTherapeutic targets

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