The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in the Pathogenesis of Coronary Heart Disease

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) constitute an important group of regulatory RNA molecules involved in the control of gene expression at the epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional levels. In recent years, their crucial role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease, has become increasingly evident. The aim of this review is to present current knowledge regarding the mechanisms of lncRNA action in the cardiovascular system, their involvement in the molecular processes associated with myocardial ischaemia, and their potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications. We discuss the molecular mechanisms responsible for the regulation of cardiomyocyte apoptosis, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, angiogenesis, coronary vessel remodelling, and cardiac fibrosis. Particular attention is paid to selected lncRNAs involved in coronary heart disease, including MIAT, MALAT1, ANRIL, and H19, which influence inflammatory processes, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, responses to hypoxia, and cardiac fibrosis. The potential of lncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in coronary artery disease is also discussed. Current evidence suggests that molecules such as MALAT1, MIAT, LIPCAR, and HCG11 may have considerable diagnostic and prognostic value, including for predicting major adverse cardiovascular events and the no-reflow phenomenon following percutaneous coronary intervention. Furthermore, contemporary therapeutic strategies targeting lncRNAs are presented, including antisense oligonucleotides, siRNAs, and CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technologies. Despite promising preclinical findings, the clinical application of lncRNA-based therapies remains limited by challenges related to safety, delivery of therapeutic molecules, and translation of experimental findings into clinical practice. Nevertheless, lncRNAs represent a promising avenue for the development of precision medicine and may play an important role in the future diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.