Abstract
Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide, yet the molecular mechanisms underpinning the development of high blood pressure remain incompletely understood. MicroRNAs are small, non-coding RNA molecules approximately 22 nucleotides in length that act as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. We highlight, through a review of recent literature, that studies on circulating microRNAs have provided novel insights into blood pressure regulation. They have also complemented tissue-based and animal-based experiments in shedding new light on our understanding of established pathways in hypertension, such as the renin-angiotensin system. Despite a number of challenges, we believe microRNAs herald particular potential in becoming effective biomarkers of target-organ damage in hypertension.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1-7 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Current opinion in pharmacology |
Volume | 27 |
Early online date | 28 Jan 2016 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Apr 2016 |
Keywords
- Animals
- Biomarkers
- Blood Pressure
- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Cardiovascular System
- Humans
- Hypertension
- MicroRNAs
- Risk Factors
- Journal Article
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
- Review