MicroRNAs Regulating Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System, Sympathetic Nervous System and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Systemic Arterial Hypertension

Dysregulated microRNAs in type 2 diabetes and breast cancer: Potential associated molecular mechanisms

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a multifaceted and heterogeneous syndrome associated with complications such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and notably, breast cancer (BC). The connection between T2D and BC is established through processes that involve insulin resistance, inflammation and other factors. Despite this comprehension the specific cellular and molecular mechanisms linking T2D to BC, especially through microRNAs (miRNAs), remain elusive. miRNAs are regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and have the function of regulating target genes by modulating various signaling pathways and biological processes. However, the signaling pathways and biological processes regulated by miRNAs that are associated with T2D and BC have not yet been elucidated. This review aims to identify dysregulated miRNAs in both T2D and BC, exploring potential signaling pathways and biological processes that collectively contribute to the development of BC.

Sympathetic overactivity, hypertension and cardiovascular disease: state of the art

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the most prevalent cause of premature death worldwide. It had been suspected for decades that increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) might play a pathogenetic role in the development and progression of hypertension, heart failure (HF) and CVD. The use of microneurographic techniques to directly assess the SNS has allowed this field to advance considerably in recent years. We now have compelling evidence for a key role of sympathetic overactivity in the pathogenesis and progression of hypertension and associated hypertension-mediated organ damage (such as endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness and left ventricular hypertrophy), HF (with or without reduced left ventricular ejection fraction). Sympathetic overactivity also drives increased cardiovascular risk in the settings of obesity, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease and obstructive sleep apnoea, among other conditions. Thus, sympathetic overactivity is an important factor that drives patients through the CVD continuum, from the early appearance of cardiovascular risk factors, to impairments of the structure and function of components of the heart and arteries, to established CVD, and ultimately to a life-threatening cardiovascular event. A deeper understanding of the role of sympathetic overactivity in the pathogenesis of CVD and HF will support the optimization of therapeutic interventions for these conditions.

MicroRNAs regulating signaling pathways in cardiac fibrosis: potential role of the exercise training

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and obesity develop long-term fibrotic processes in the heart, promoting pathological cardiac remodeling, including after myocardial infarction, reparative fibrotic processes also occur. These processes are regulated by many intracellular signaling pathways that have not yet been completely elucidated, including those associated with microRNA (miRNA) expression. miRNAs are small RNA transcripts (18-25 nucleotides in length) that act as posttranscriptionally regulators of gene expression, inhibiting or degrading one or more target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and proven to be involved in many biological processes such as cell cycle, differentiation, proliferation, migration, and apoptosis, directly affecting the pathophysiology of several diseases, including cardiac fibrosis. Exercise training can modulate the expression of miRNAs and it is known to be beneficial in various cardiovascular diseases, attenuating cardiac fibrosis processes. However, the signaling pathways modulated by the exercise associated with miRNAs in cardiac fibrosis were not fully understood. Thus, this review aims to analyze the expression of miRNAs that modulate signaling pathways in cardiac fibrosis processes that can be regulated by exercise training.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) role in hypertension: pathogenesis and promising therapeutics

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and disease development. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of miRNAs in the development and progression of essential hypertension, a common form of high blood pressure that affects millions of individuals worldwide. The molecular mechanisms by which miRNAs regulate hypertension are complex and multifaceted. MiRNAs target the 3' untranslated regions of mRNA molecules, thereby regulating the synthesis of specific proteins involved in cardiovascular function. For instance, miRNAs are known to regulate the expression of genes involved in blood vessel tone, cardiac function, and inflammation. The growing body of research on miRNAs in hypertension has highlighted their potential as therapeutic targets for managing this condition. Studies have shown that miRNA-based therapies can modulate the expression of key genes involved in hypertension, leading to improvements in blood pressure and cardiovascular function. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of miRNA-mediated hypertension and to develop effective therapeutic strategies.

Conclusions

In summary, this review highlights the current understanding of the role of miRNAs in essential hypertension, including their molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of miRNAs on hypertension and to develop new treatments for this common and debilitating condition.

Resistance Training Reduces Blood Pressure: Putative Molecular Mechanisms

Arterial hypertension is a multifactorial clinical condition characterized by higher blood pressure levels. The main treatment for controlling high blood pressure consists of drug therapy, but the scientific literature has been pointing to the efficiency of aerobic and resistance exercises acting in a therapeutic and/or preventive way to reduce and control the blood pressure levels. Resistance training is characterized by sets and repetitions on a given muscle segment that uses overload, such as machine weights, bars, and dumbbells. As it successfully affects a number of variables associated to practitioners' functional and physiological features as well as emotional and social variables, resistance training has been a crucial part of physical exercise programs. Several reports highlight the various adaptive responses it provides, with a focus on the improvement in strength, balance, and muscular endurance that enables a more active and healthy lifestyle. Resistance training programs that are acute, sub-chronic, or chronic can help people with varying ages, conditions, and pathologies reduce their arterial hypertension. However, molecular mechanisms associated with resistance training to reduce blood pressure still need to be better understood. Thus, we aimed to understand the main effects of resistance training on blood pressure as well as the associated molecular mechanisms.

Genetic and epigenetic factors of arterial hypertension: a bibliometric- and in-silico-based analyses

Introduction: Arterial hypertension (AH) is a pervasive global health concern with multifaceted origins encompassing both genetic and environmental components. Previous research has firmly established the association between AH and diverse genetic factors. Consequently, scientists have conducted extensive genetic investigations in recent years to unravel the intricate pathophysiology of AH. Methods: In this study, we conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis employing VOSviewer software to identify the most noteworthy genetic factors that have been the focal point of numerous investigations within the AH field in recent years. Our analysis revealed genes and microRNAs intricately linked to AH, underscoring their pivotal roles in this condition. Additionally, we performed molecular docking analyses to ascertain microRNAs with the highest binding affinity to these identified genes. Furthermore, we constructed a network to elucidate the in-silico-based functional interactions between the identified microRNAs and genes, shedding light on their potential roles in AH pathogenesis. Results: Notably, this pioneering in silico examination of genetic factors associated with AH promises novel insights into our understanding of this complex condition. Our findings prominently highlight miR-7110-5p, miR-7110-3p, miR-663, miR-328-3p, and miR-140-5p as microRNAs exhibiting a remarkable affinity for target genes. These microRNAs hold promise as valuable diagnostic and therapeutic factors, offering new avenues for the diagnosis and treatment of AH in the foreseeable future. Conclusion: In summary, this research underscores the critical importance of genetic factors in AH and, through in silico analyses, identifies specific microRNAs with significant potential for further investigation and clinical applications in AH management.

Future treatments in hypertension: Can we meet the unmet needs of patients?

The prevalence of arterial hypertension is approximately 47% in the United States and 55% in Europe. Multiple different medical therapies are used to treat hypertension including diuretics, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, alpha blockers, central acting alpha receptor agonists, neprilysin inhibitors and vasodilators. However, despite the numerous number of medications, the prevalence of hypertension is on the rise, a considerable proportion of the hypertensive population is resistant to these therapeutic modalities and a definitive cure is not possible with the current treatment approaches. Therefore, there is a need for novel therapeutic strategies to provide better treatment and control of hypertension. In this review, our aim is to describe the latest developments in the treatment of hypertension including novel medication classes, gene therapies and RNA-based modalities.

Mechanisms of sex and gender differences in hypertension

The mechanisms that control blood pressure are multifaceted including the sympathetic nervous system and the renin-angiotensin system leading to vasoconstriction and sodium reabsorption that causes a shift in the pressure-natriuesis relationship to higher blood pressures. Sex steroids can affect these mechanisms either directly or indirectly, and the effects may be different depending on the sex of the individual. This review will discuss some of the major blood pressure-controlling mechanisms and how sex steroids may affect them and the need for future studies to better clarify the mechanisms responsible for sex and gender differences in blood pressure control. New mechanisms that are identified, along with what is already known, will provide better tools for treatment of hypertension in men and women of all ethnicities and decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease in the future.

High miR-126-3p levels associated with cardiovascular events in a general population

BACKGROUND

Endothelial dysfunction is a forerunner of atherosclerosis, leading to cardiovascular disease, and albuminuria is a marker of endothelial dysfunction. Circulating levels of microRNAs are emerging as potential biomarkers for cardiovascular disease. Here we estimate the predictive value of a plasma microRNAs signature associated with albuminuria in the incidence of cardiovascular events.

METHODS

Plasma microRNAs quantified in hypertensive patients by next generation sequencing were validated in a cohort of patients and controls by real-time quantitative PCR. The microRNAs found to be associated with albuminuria were analysed for their prognostic value in predicting cardiovascular events incidence on a retrospective, population-based study (Hortega Study), using Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

A plasma microRNA profile was identified in the discovery cohort (n = 48) associated with albuminuria and three microRNAs (miR-126-3p, miR-1260b and miR-374a-5p) were confirmed in the validation cohort (n = 98). The microRNA signature discriminates urinary albumin excretion at baseline (n = 1025), and predicts the incidence of cardiovascular events and coronary heart disease and stroke in a general population retrospective study within a 14-year follow-up (n = 926). High miR-126-3p levels were associated with a shorter time free of both cardiovascular events (HR=1.48, (1.36-1.62), p < 0.0001), as well as coronary artery disease and stroke combined (HR=2.49, (2.19-2.83), p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

An increased plasma microRNAs profile was identified in hypertensive patients with albuminuria. Increased miR-126-3p suggest it may serve as a prognostic marker for cardiovascular events in a long-term general population. Further studies will assess the potential role of miR-126-3p as a guide for the status of endothelial dysfunction.

Long-term consequences of COVID-19 on mental health and the impact of a physically active lifestyle: a narrative review

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Respiratory viruses damage not only the upper respiratory tract in humans, but also several different organs such as the brain. Some of the neurological consequences of COVID-19 reported are anosmia, headache, stroke, declined cognitive function, and impaired mental health, among others. People who had COVID-19 have a higher risk of sequelae in the central nervous system (CNS). However, it is not known which are all possible sequelae and how long will last the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on behavioral patterns and quality of life.

AIM

We intend to address the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on mental health and the relevance of physical exercise during the pandemic.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search using PubMed to find the articles that were related to these themes.

RESULTS

We found 23,489 papers initially, and then we applied the inclusion/exclusion criteria to narrow down our search to 3617 articles and selected 1380 eligible articles after a thorough reading of titles and abstracts. The findings indicated that COVID-19 impacted general mental health and led many not only hospitalized patients to develop cognitive decline, memory impairment, anxiety, sleep alterations, and depressive-like behavior. Furthermore, the fear of vaccines and their effects had negatively affected mental health and directly impacted mortality rates in unvaccinated COVID-19 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive measures must be undertaken, such as the vaccination of the entire population, vaccination hesitancy discouragement by creating awareness among individuals, and people's engagement in a physically active lifestyle, since being physically active is a low-cost and effective measure to restore or inhibit the negative outcomes from COVID-19 on mental health.

MiR-219a-5p Inhibits Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) Cell Migration by Regulating Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox 1 (ZEB1) Expression

The potential role of miR-219a-5p in the migration of breast cancer has not been fully elucidated. In this study, bioinformatic analysis revealed that high miR-219a-5p expression in breast cancer tissue was associated with good survival of breast cancer patients. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that miR-219a-5p expression is significantly lower in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. In addition, pre-miR-219a overexpression inhibited MCF-7 cell migration and inhibited ZEB1, Twist1 and vimentin expression but promoted the expression of E-cadherin. Moreover, miR-219a-5p mimics inhibited MCF-7 cell migration, whereas MCF-7 cell migration was promoted by the miR-219a-5p inhibitor. Furthermore, miR-219a-5p was found to inhibit the translation of ZEB1 expression by targeting the 5′-ACAAUCA-3′ motif of the ZEB1 3′UTR, and the binding motif is conserved in multiple species. ZEB1 overexpression rescued the inhibition of cell migration induced by miR-219a-5p. Finally, an inverse correlation of miR-219a-5p and ZEB1 expression was observed in four breast cancer cell lines. Thus, miR-219a-5p inhibits MCF-7 cell migration by regulating ZEB1 expression, and ZEB1 is the target gene of miR-219a-5p.

Emerging Roles of Micrornas in Veterinary Cardiology

Simple Summary

MicroRNAs are promising novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular diseases. These molecules are defined as a class of short-sequence non-coding RNAs that influence the expression of numerous genes. The growing understanding of cardiac biology contributed to recognising specific abnormal microRNA expression when diseases are present, which makes them potential biomarkers and therapeutical targets. Recent studies have analysed and discussed microRNA expression in cardiac diseases, such as myxomatous mitral valve disease, which are prevalent in our animal companions. This review summarises the most relevant microRNAs related to cardiovascular diseases in dogs and cats. In addition, it describes microRNA’s basic biology and function and discusses their potential as circulating biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and monitorisation of treatment, as well as their limitations. Although current studies describe microRNA expression in veterinary cardiology, further work is warranted before they are implemented in the clinical setting.

Abstract

Over the last years, the importance of microRNAs (miRNAs) has increasingly been recognised. Each miRNA is a short sequence of non-coding RNA that influences countless genes’ expression and, thereby, contributes to several physiological pathways and diseases. It has been demonstrated that miRNAs participate in the development of many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review synopsises the most recent studies emphasising miRNA’s influence in several CVDs affecting dogs and cats. It provides a concise outline of miRNA’s biology and function, the diagnostic potential of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers, and their role in different CVDs. It also discusses known and future roles for miRNAs as potential clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets. So, this review gives a comprehensive outline of the most relevant miRNAs related to CVDs in Veterinary Medicine.

The Epigenetic Role of MiRNAs in Endocrine Crosstalk Between the Cardiovascular System and Adipose Tissue: A Bidirectional View

Overweight and obesity (OBT) is a serious health condition worldwide, and one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), the main reason for morbidity and mortality worldwide. OBT is the proportional increase of Adipose Tissue (AT) compared with other tissue and fluids, associated with pathological changes in metabolism, hemodynamic overload, cytokine secretion, systemic inflammatory profile, and cardiac metabolism. In turn, AT is heterogeneous in location, and displays secretory capacity, lipolytic activation, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic status, performing anatomic, metabolic, and endocrine functions. Evidence has emerged on the bidirectional crosstalk exerted by miRNAs as regulators between the heart and AT on metabolism and health conditions. Here, we discuss the bidirectional endocrine role of miRNAs between heart and AT, rescuing extracellular vesicles’ (EVs) role in cell-to-cell communication, and the most recent results that show the potential of common therapeutic targets through the elucidation of parallel and ⁄or common epigenetic mechanisms.

Combined superposition effect of hypertension and dyslipidemia on left ventricular hypertrophy

BACKGROUND

Hypertension and dyslipidemia are considered reversible risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of traditional and nontraditional blood lipid profiles on the risk of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and to explore the superposition effect of dyslipidemia combined with hypertension.

METHODS

Data on 9134 participants (53.5 ± 10.3 years old) from the Northeast China Rural Cardiovascular Health Study (NCRCHS) were statistically analyzed. The blood lipid profile was measured by total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total glyceride (TG), and calculated nontraditional blood lipid indices including non-HDL-C, atherosclerosis index (AI), TC/HDL-C, and residual cholesterol (RC).

RESULTS

After the adjustment of age and gender, the odds ratios (ORs) of LVH in patients with hypertension, high LDL-C, high non-HDL-C, high AI, and high TC/HDL-C were 3.97 (3.31-4.76), 1.27 (1.02-1.59), 1.21 (1.04-1.39), 1.33 (1.15-1.53), and 1.42 (1.22-1.65), respectively. After full adjustment of potential confounding factors, high AI and TC/HDL-C were associated with LVH rather than traditional blood lipid indices. The combination of hypertension and nontraditional dyslipidemia (defined by high AI and TC/HDL-C) was associated with the highest risk of LVH, especially in participants under 45 years of age. The risk was more significant in men, 5.09-fold and 6.24-fold, respectively, compared with 3.66-fold and 4.01-fold in women.

CONCLUSIONS

People with dyslipidemia defined by nontraditional blood lipid indices (high AI and high TC/HDL-C) and hypertension were more likely to develop LVH.

Regulation of the Placental Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Early- and Late-Onset Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the most dangerous complications of pregnancy, characterized by hypertension, proteinuria, and symptoms of multiple organ failure, which are detected de novo after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is one of the first to recognize pregnancy and is an important regulator of blood pressure. The placenta has its own RAAS, the role of which in the development of PE is not fully understood. In this work, for the first time, we characterized the expression of RAAS components and miRNAs controlling it in the placenta at various times of PE manifestation. The data obtained will allow the development of a new strategy in the future for the search for therapeutic agents for patients suffering from PE and cardiovascular diseases.