miR-10b promotes aortic aneurysm formation and aortic rupture in angiotensin II-induced ApoE-deficient mice

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with increased plasma levels of microRNA (miR)-10b. 5 nmols of miR-10b or miR control was administrated to Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice three days prior implantation of osmotic mini-pumps containing angiotensin II, and for three additional times once a week, which increased expression of miR-10b in plasma. Animals receiving miR-10b had a mortality rate due to aortic rupture of 61% compared to 11% in the miR controls (p < 0.05). Further, miR-10b resulted in an increased aneurysm formation and growth (p < 0.05), which was accompanied by increased elastin degradation, neutrophil and mast cell markers (p < 0.05). In conclusion, miR-10b is functionally affecting aneurysm development and rupture and not only a marker of AAA. More mechanistic studies are required to better understand miR-10b's role in AAA formation.

Automated summary

MicroRNA-10b (miR-10b) is associated with increased mortality rate due to aortic rupture in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) animal models. The study suggests that miR-10b not only serves as a marker for AAA, but also plays a functional role in aneurysm development and rupture. More mechanistic studies are needed to further understand the role of miR-10b in AAA formation.