Circular RNAs as potential theranostics in the cardiac fibrosis

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of single-stranded RNA molecules that normally do not encode proteins. circRNAs are involved in many physiological processes as well as the pathogenesis of diseases. Cardiac fibrosis is increasingly recognized as a pathological force in advanced heart diseases. A growing number of studies have reported that the occurrence and development of cardiac fibrosis is closely associated with the regulation of circRNAs. This review summarizes the current understanding of circRNA biogenesis and function and will highlight the recent updates regarding the involvement of circRNAs in cardiac fibrosis, and their potential as emerging biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Automated summary

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are single-stranded RNA molecules that do not encode proteins and play roles in various physiological processes and disease pathogenesis. Cardiac fibrosis is increasingly recognized as a pathological process in heart diseases, with regulation by circRNAs. Studies have highlighted the involvement of circRNAs in cardiac fibrosis, suggesting their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.