Premium
The biology of circulating micro RNA s in cardiovascular disease
Author(s) -
Min PilKi,
Chan Stephen Y.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
european journal of clinical investigation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.164
H-Index - 107
eISSN - 1365-2362
pISSN - 0014-2972
DOI - 10.1111/eci.12475
Subject(s) - microvesicles , microrna , intracellular , extracellular , extracellular vesicles , biology , microvesicle , disease , diagnostic biomarker , extracellular vesicle , rna , computational biology , microbiology and biotechnology , bioinformatics , biomarker , medicine , genetics , gene , pathology
Background Since their first description in mammalian cells, more than 2500 micro RNA molecules have been predicted or verified within human cells. Recently, extracellular micro RNA s have been described, protected from degradation by specialized packaging in extracellular vesicles or RNA ‐binding proteins. Materials and methods We will discuss recent data regarding circulating micro RNA s, their potential role as novel biomarkers and intercellular communicators, as well as future challenges of studying and applying such novel biology, particularly in the cardiovascular system. Results Circulating micro RNA s have been proposed as attractive candidates as both diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in various diseases, including a spectrum of cardiovascular conditions. Moreover, consistent with our evolving appreciation of the role of exosomes and microvesicles in intercellular communication, it has been proposed that delivery of active micro RNA s to recipient tissues may serve as a primary mode of intercellular communication. Indeed, the transfer of functional micro RNA s has been demonstrated in in vitro models and has been reported in a few in vivo contexts. In addition, therapeutic application of extracellular micro RNA s has also been explored. Conclusion Over recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the role of circulating mi RNA s in cardiovascular disease. As biomarkers and intercellular communicators, circulating mi RNA s could play important roles in the prediction, diagnosis and tailored treatment of cardiovascular diseases in the near future.