MicroRNA-34a in cardiovascular disease: a glimpse into the future
Abstract
Epigenetic processes involved in regulation of cardiovascular functions including regulatory role of microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are being actively studied all over the world. Significant changes of miRNAs expression in many diseases have made it possible to consider them as perspective biomarkers. In this review, we discussed the main studies demonstrating potential role of miRNA-34a in cardiovascular diseases. Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated significance of miRNA-34a in cardiovascular diseases. Overexpression of miRNA-34a has been shown to suppress autophagy and promote cardiovascular apoptosis, inflammation, fibrosis, remodeling, aging and cardiac dysfunction. Inhibition of miRNA-34a enhances autophagy, reduces apoptosis and provides antioxidant and antifibrotic effects on cardiovascular system. This review presents regulatory role of miRNA-34a in cardiovascular diseases and provides evidence of benefits of miRNA-34a as a potential therapeutic target. Further additional preclinical and clinical trials are needed to identify potential benefits and side effects of miRNA-34a inhibitors in cardiovascular diseases.