Circular RNAs as a Diagnostic and Therapeutic Target in Cardiovascular Diseases

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a family of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that are endogenous and widely distributed in different species, performing several functions, mainly their association with microRNAs (miRNAs) and RNA-binding proteins. CVDs remain the leading cause of death worldwide; therefore, the development of new therapies and strategies, such as gene therapies or nonpharmacological therapies, with low cost, such as physical exercise, to alleviate these diseases is of extreme importance for society. With increasing evidence of ncRNA participating in the progression of CVDs, several studies have reported these RNAs as promising targets for diagnosis and treatment. There are several studies of CVDs and the role of miRNAs and lncRNAs; however, little is known about the new class of RNAs, called circRNAs, and CVDs. In this mini review, we focus on the mechanisms of circRNAs and CVDs.

Automated summary

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play various roles, mainly involving microRNAs (miRNAs) and RNA-binding proteins. With cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) being the leading cause of global death, it is crucial to develop new therapies and strategies, such as gene therapies or nonpharmacological interventions like physical exercise, for the alleviation of these diseases. Increasing evidence suggests that ncRNAs, including circRNAs, could serve as promising targets for the diagnosis and treatment of CVDs. However, little is known about the role of circRNAs in CVDs compared to miRNAs and lncRNAs. In this mini review, we focus on the mechanisms of circRNAs and their involvement in CVDs.