Decoding the Interplay of Genes and MicroRNAs in Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide, and it has been found to have a strong genetic component. In recent years, there has been much interest in the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in CVD. miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNAs. Many studies have shown that miRNAs play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including the regulation of cellular functions involved in the development of CVD. Several miRNAs have been identified that are involved in the pathogenesis of CVD, and some of them are associated with specific cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension or diabetes. It has been suggested that targeting specific miRNAs or combinations of miRNAs could serve as a novel therapeutic approach for CVD. Moreover, studies have also shown that certain genes are involved in CVD risk and progression leading to different clinical manifestations like coronary artery disease, heart failure, and valvular disease. Some of these genes are involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cell proliferation and differentiation, and their expression is regulated by miRNAs. In conclusion, a complex interaction between genes and miRNAs contributes to CVD pathogenesis, and further research is required to fully understand the mechanisms involved. Nevertheless, the identification of specific miRNAs that are involved in CVD provides potential targets for future therapeutics.