MicroRNAs in Cardiovascular Disease: From Pathogenesis to Treatment

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are among the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Currently, considerable effort is made to intensify preventive measures, refi ne diagnostic testing, and advance therapeutic strategies. In this context, miRNAs have emerged as a new class of key regulators involved in the pathogenesis of many cardiovascular disorders, entailing a deep scientifi c interest in assessing their biomedical potential. Numerous studies identifi ed miRNA signatures that correlate with specifi c cardiovascular conditions, hereby emphasizing their potential as molecular biomarkers. In the therapeutic setting, modulations of miRNA expression and function in experimental models of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure are promising approaches. The encouraging results of these proof-of-concept studies and fi rst successful clinical trials in humans point to a bright future for miRNAs in cardiovascular medicine.