MicroRNAs in Myocarditis—Review of the Preclinical In Vivo Trials

Abstract

Myocarditis is an inflammatory heart disease with viruses as the most common cause. Regardless of multiple studies that have recently been conducted, the diagnostic options still need to be improved. Although endomyocardial biopsy is known as a diagnostic gold standard, it is invasive and, thus, only sometimes performed. Novel techniques of cardiac magnetic resonance are not readily available. Therapy in viral infections is based mainly on symptomatic treatment, while steroids and intravenous immunoglobulins are used in autoimmune myocarditis. The effectiveness of neither of these methods has been explicitly proven to date. Therefore, novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are highly needed. MiRNAs are small, non-coding molecules that regulate fundamental cell functions, including differentiation, metabolism, and apoptosis. They present altered levels in different diseases, including myocarditis. Numerous studies investigating the role of miRNAs in myocarditis have already been conducted. In this review, we discussed only the original preclinical in vivo research. We eventually included 30 studies relevant to the discussed area. The altered miRNA levels have been observed, including upregulation and downregulation of different miRNAs in the mice models of myocarditis. Furthermore, the administration of mimics or inhibitors of particular miRNAs was shown to significantly influence inflammation, morphology, and function of the heart and overall survival. Finally, some studies presented prospective advantages in vaccine development.

A Narrative Review of Preclinical In Vitro Studies Investigating microRNAs in Myocarditis

“…In previous reviews, we have already summarized clinical trials and in vivo preclinical trials [26,27]. In this review, the last one from the series about microRNAs in myocarditis, we aimed to analyze preclinical in vitro studies thoroughly.…”

The Role of MicroRNA in the Pathogenesis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

“…Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been reported to regulate the progression of numerous diseases, including cardiological conditions, autoimmune disorders, and malignancies [ 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ]. These molecules mediate gene expression; thus, their dysregulation can significantly contribute to the progression of the disease.…”