Micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are in the spotlight as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. More than 1,000 miRNAs are encoded in the human genome. In this review, we provide an introduction to miRNA biology and research methodology, and highlight advances in cardiovascular research to date. This includes the potential of miRNAs as therapeutic targets in cardiac and vascular disease, and their use as novel biomarkers. Although some miRNA therapies are already undergoing clinical evaluation, we stress the importance of integrating current knowledge of miRNA biology into a systemic context. Discovery studies focus on miRNA effects within one specific organ, whereas the expression of most miRNAs is not restricted to a single tissue. Because most miRNA-based therapies act systemically, this may preclude widespread clinical use. The development of more targeted interventions will bolster well-informed clinical applications, increasing the chances of success and minimizing the risk of setbacks for miRNA-based therapeutics. Key words: biomarkers; genetic therapy; noncoding RNA; RNA therapeutic Abbreviations and Acronyms anti-miRs inhibitors of miRNAs CVD cardiovascular disease ECM extracellular matrix MHC myosin heavy chain MI myocardial infarction miRNA/miR micro-ribonucleic acid mRNA messenger ribonucleic acid RISC ribonucleic acid-induced silencing complex SMC smooth muscle cell
Barwari et al. (2016) studied this question.