The role of small and long non-coding RNAs in cardiac pathologies

Abstract

Cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) still remain the leading cause of death worldwide. The current lack of therapeutic approaches that efficiently improve CVD quality of care and prevent the development of life-threatening complications, prompted the scientific community to continue a deeper investigation of the molecular mechanisms driving the onset and progression of these pathologies. In this context, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) were demonstrated to be involved in the onset of different forms of CVDs. In this review we will discuss basic aspects of some classes of ncRNAs as well as their mechanism of action and involvement in CVDs. The potential therapeutic use of ncRNAs in the clinical practice will also be addressed.