Decoding microRNA drivers in atherosclerosis. Issue 7 (29th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vartak, Tanwi; Kumaresan, Soundharya; Brennan, Eoin
• Is Part Of: Bioscience reports. Volume 42:Issue 7(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-07-29
• Subjects: atherosclerosis -- endothelial cells -- microRNA -- non-coding RNA -- vascular smooth muscle; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Cytology -- Periodicals; 572.8
• DOI: 10.1042/BSR20212355
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-8463

Abstract

Abstract: An estimated 97% of the human genome consists of non-protein-coding sequences. As our understanding of genome regulation improves, this has led to the characterization of a diverse array of non-coding RNAs (ncRNA). Among these, micro-RNAs (miRNAs) belong to the short ncRNA class (22–25 nucleotides in length), with approximately 2500 miRNA genes encoded within the human genome. From a therapeutic perspective, there is interest in exploiting miRNA as biomarkers of disease progression and response to treatments, as well as miRNA mimics/repressors as novel medicines. miRNA have emerged as an important class of RNA master regulators with important roles identified in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis is characterized by a chronic inflammatory build-up, driven largely by low-density lipoprotein cholesterol accumulation within the artery wall and vascular injury, including endothelial dysfunction, leukocyte recruitment and vascular remodelling. Conventional therapy focuses on lifestyle interventions, blood pressure-lowering medications, high-intensity statin therapy and antiplatelet agents. However, a significant proportion of patients remain at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This continued cardiovascular risk is referred to as residual risk. Hence, a new drug class targeting atherosclerosis could synergise with existing therapies to optimise outcomes. Here, we review our current understanding of the role of ncRNA, with a focus on miRNA, in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, highlighting novel biological mechanisms and therapeutic avenues.