MicroRNAs In The Pathogenesis Of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is closely related to abnormal lipoprotein metabolism and inflammation. microRNAs comprise a novel class of conserved, small, non-coding RNAs that are mediators of post-transcriptional gene expression and regulators of cell differentiation、growth、proliferation and apoptosis. Studies have demonstrated that microRNAs, especially microRNAs33, can regulate lipid metabolism related gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, involved in cholesterol, high density lipoprotein and fatty acid metabolism. On the other hand, vascular endothelial cells, monocytes/macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells play a key role in the inflammatory response of atherosclerosis. MicroRNAs can affect the arterial atherosclerotic plaque block stability and vascular regeneration process by regulating these cells in the regulation of vascular inflammation. In this article, the research progress of microRNAs in abnormal lipoprotein metabolism and inflammation was reviewed to provide the basis for the study of the role of microRNAs in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and the application of microRNAs as a diagnostic/treatment tool for cardiovascular diseases.