The Missing "lnc" between Genetics and Cardiac Disease

Roles of circular RNAs in osteogenic/osteoclastogenic differentiation

The process of bone remodeling occurs and is regulated through interactions between osteoclasts, which resorb bone, and osteoblasts, which generate bone tissue. When the homeostatic balance between these two cell types is dysregulated, this can contribute to abnormal bone remodeling resulting in a loss of bone mass as is observed in osteoporosis (OP) and other forms of degenerative bone metabolic diseases. At present, details of molecular mechanism underlying the development of bone metabolic diseases such as OP remain to be elucidated. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules with a closed-loop structure that can regulate the differentiation of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. The present review provides a systematic overview of recent literature on the processes through which circRNAs regulate the dynamic balance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts that ultimately preserve bone homeostasis. It will also give insight that can shape current understanding of the pathogenesis of OP and other bone metabolic diseases to better guide diagnostic and treatment strategies for affected patients.

Prospects Of Non-Coding Elements In Genomic Dna Based Gene Therapy

Gene therapy has made significant development since the commencement of the first clinical trials a few decades ago and has remained a dynamic area of research regardless of obstacles such as immune response and insertional mutagenesis. Progression in various technologies like next-generation sequencing (NGS) and nanotechnology has established the importance of non-coding segments of a genome, thereby taking gene therapy to the next level. In this review, we have summarized the importance of non-coding elements, highlighting the advantages of using full-length genomic DNA loci (gDNA) compared to complementary DNA (cDNA) or minigene, currently used in gene therapy. The focus of this review is to provide an overview of the advances and the future of potential use of gDNA loci in gene therapy, expanding the therapeutic repertoire in molecular medicine.

Approaching Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Non-Coding RNA Research

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the biggest cause of sickness and mortality worldwide in both males and females. Clinical statistics demonstrate clear sex differences in risk, prevalence, mortality rates, and response to treatment for different entities of CVD. The reason for this remains poorly understood. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as key mediators and biomarkers of CVD. Similarly, current knowledge on differential regulation, expression, and pathology-associated function of ncRNAs between sexes is minimal. Here, we provide a state-of-the-art overview of what is known on sex differences in ncRNA research in CVD as well as discussing the contributing biological factors to this sex dimorphism including genetic and epigenetic factors and sex hormone regulation of transcription. We then focus on the experimental models of CVD and their use in translational ncRNA research in the cardiovascular field. In particular, we want to highlight the importance of considering sex of the cellular and pre-clinical models in clinical studies in ncRNA research and to carefully consider the appropriate experimental models most applicable to human patient populations. Moreover, we aim to identify sex-specific targets for treatment and diagnosis for the biggest socioeconomic health problem globally.