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Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases
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Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2024) | Viewed by 13762

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Silvia S. Barbieri

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Unit of Brain-Heart Axis: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
Interests: cardiovascular disease; cardiology; thrombosis; thrombus formation, growth and resolution; coagulation; reactive oxygen species platelets; endothealial cells; pharmacology; signaling pathways
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Around one-third of total deaths are associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs); this presents a major challenge for modern-day healthcare. CVDs encompass several conditions that can affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery diseases, carditis, heart failure, thromboembolism and so on. There are many risk factors for CVDs. More recently, a link was found between inflammation and atherosclerosis, and there have been some new perspectives on endothelial coagulation disorders, which all may lead to new breakthroughs in the clinical treatment of CVDs.

The aim of this Special Issue is to extend the knowledge of the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in CVDs. Both original research and review articles as well as short communications are strongly encouraged. Methodological studies focusing on new models and research techniques used to study these aspects are also welcome.

Dr. Silvia Barbieri
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • cardiovascular diseases
  • cardiology
  • inflammation
  • atherosclerosis
  • cardiomyopathy
  • endothelial cell

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1192 KiB  
Article
Circulating Matrix Metalloproteinases for Prediction of Aortic Dilatation in Children with Bicuspid Aortic Valve: A Single-Center, Observational Study
by Amalia Făgărășan, Maria Oana Săsăran, Liliana Gozar, Daniela Toma, Carmen Șuteu, Simina Ghiragosian-Rusu, Flavia Cristina Al-Akel, Boglarka Szabo and Adina Huțanu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(19), 10538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms251910538 - 30 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1459
Abstract
Circulating biomarkers have been proposed for early identification of aortic dilatation progression associated with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), but matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are distinguished as signatures of increased extracellular matrix degradation, a landmark of aneurysm formation. The current study aims to identify the [...] Read more.
Circulating biomarkers have been proposed for early identification of aortic dilatation progression associated with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), but matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are distinguished as signatures of increased extracellular matrix degradation, a landmark of aneurysm formation. The current study aims to identify the role of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and the MMP inhibitor, TIMP-1, in identifying aortic dilation in children with BAV. We conducted a study on 73 children divided into two study groups, depending on the presence of aortic dilatation (group 1–43 BAV controls and group 2–30 children with BAV and aortic dilatation). Each patient underwent a cardiac ultrasound and, in each case, serum MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 were quantified using xMAP technology. Comparison of the MMPs between the two study groups revealed significantly higher values only in the case of TIMP-1, among BAV controls. Moreover, the same TIMP-1 inversely correlated with aortic annulus absolute size and z score, as well as with ascending aorta z score. No particular correlation between the aortic phenotype and the presence of aortic dilatation was found. Future longitudinal research starting at pediatric ages could show the significance of MMPs screening in BAV individuals as predictors of aortic aneurysm formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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35 pages, 6908 KiB  
Article
Crucial Interactions between Altered Plasma Trace Elements and Fatty Acids Unbalance Ratio to Management of Systemic Arterial Hypertension in Diabetic Patients: Focus on Endothelial Dysfunction
by Ines Gouaref, Amel Otmane, Mohamed Makrelouf, Samir Ait Abderrhmane, Ali El Mahdi Haddam and Elhadj-Ahmed Koceir
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9288; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179288 - 27 Aug 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1909
Abstract
The coexistence of SAH with T2DM is a common comorbidity. In this study, we investigated the link between altered plasma antioxidant trace elements (ATE: manganese, selenium, zinc, and copper) and fatty acids ratio (FAR: polyunsaturated/saturated) imbalance as transition biomarkers between vascular pathology (SAH) [...] Read more.
The coexistence of SAH with T2DM is a common comorbidity. In this study, we investigated the link between altered plasma antioxidant trace elements (ATE: manganese, selenium, zinc, and copper) and fatty acids ratio (FAR: polyunsaturated/saturated) imbalance as transition biomarkers between vascular pathology (SAH) to metabolic pathology (T2DM). Our data revealed strong correlation between plasma ATE and FAR profile, which is modified during SAH-T2DM association compared to the healthy group. This relationship is mediated by lipotoxicity (simultaneously prominent visceral adipose tissue lipolysis, significant flow of non-esterified free fatty acids release, TG-Chol-dyslipidemia, high association of total SFA, palmitic acid, arachidonic acid, and PUFA ω6/PUFA ω3; drop in tandem of PUFA/SFA and EPA + DHA); oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation confirmed by TAS depletion and MDA rise, concurrent drop of Zn/Cu-SOD, GPx, GSH, Se, Zn, Se/Mn, Zn/Cu; concomitant enhancement of Cu, Mn, and Fe); endothelial dysfunction (endotheline−1 increase); athero-thrombogenesis risk (concomitant rise of ApoB100/ApoA1, Ox-LDL, tHcy, and Lp(a)), and inflammation (higher of Hs-CRP, fibrinogen and ferritin). Our study opens to new therapeutic targets and to better dietary management, such as to establishing dietary ATE and PUFA ω6/PUFA ω3 or PUFA/SFA reference values for atherosclerotic risk prevention in hypertensive/diabetic patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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Review

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17 pages, 1097 KiB  
Review
Exosomes and miRNAs in Cardiovascular Diseases and Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement: Advancements, Gaps and Perspectives
by Runzhang Liang, Naijimuding Abudurexiti, Jiaxiong Wu, Jing Ling, Zirui Peng, Haiyun Yuan and Shusheng Wen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(24), 13686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252413686 - 21 Dec 2024
Viewed by 910
Abstract
As an important carrier of intercellular information transmission, exosomes regulate the physiological and pathological state of local or distant cells by carrying a variety of signal molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Current research indicates that exosomes and miRNAs can serve as biomarkers and [...] Read more.
As an important carrier of intercellular information transmission, exosomes regulate the physiological and pathological state of local or distant cells by carrying a variety of signal molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Current research indicates that exosomes and miRNAs can serve as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for a variety of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This narrative review summarizes the research progress of exosomes and their miRNAs in CVDs, particularly in pulmonary valve diseases (PVDs), and, for the first time, explores their potential associations with transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR). Currently, miRNAs play a crucial role in determining the optimal timing for TPVR intervention, and they demonstrate broad application prospects in post-TPVR right ventricular (RV) remodeling, treatment, and prognosis monitoring. However, the association between exosomes and miRNAs and the development of PVDs, particularly pulmonary regurgitation, remains unclear. The molecular mechanisms of exosomes and miRNAs in PVDs and RV remodeling after TPVR have not been fully elucidated, and their application in postoperative treatment following TPVR is still in its infancy. Future research must focus on advancing fundamental studies, validating biomarkers, and enhancing clinical applications to achieve significant breakthroughs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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19 pages, 2998 KiB  
Review
Functions of TAM Receptors and Ligands Protein S and Gas6 in Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease
by Teagan Prouse, Samarpan Majumder and Rinku Majumder
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 12736; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252312736 - 27 Nov 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1621
Abstract
Atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease are associated with high morbidity and mortality in industrialized nations. The Tyro3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases is involved in the amplification or resolution of atherosclerosis pathology and other cardiovascular pathology. The ligands of these [...] Read more.
Atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease are associated with high morbidity and mortality in industrialized nations. The Tyro3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases is involved in the amplification or resolution of atherosclerosis pathology and other cardiovascular pathology. The ligands of these receptors, Protein S (PS) and growth arrest specific protein 6 (Gas6), are essential for TAM receptor functions in the amplification and resolution of atherosclerosis. The Axl-Gas6 interaction has various effects on cardiovascular disease. Mer and PS dampen inflammation, thereby protecting against atherosclerosis progression. Tyro3, the least studied TAM receptor in cardiovascular disease, appears to protect against fibrosis in post-myocardial infarction injury. Ultimately, PS, Gas6, and TAM receptors present an exciting avenue of potential therapeutic targets against inflammation associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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20 pages, 2067 KiB  
Review
Vascular Extracellular Matrix in Atherosclerosis
by Alessia Di Nubila, Giovanna Dilella, Rosa Simone and Silvia S. Barbieri
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(22), 12017; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252212017 - 8 Nov 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2465
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a central role in the structural integrity and functionality of the cardiovascular system. Moreover, the ECM is involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation and stability. In fact, ECM remodeling affects plaque stability, cellular migration, and inflammatory responses. Collagens, fibronectin, [...] Read more.
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a central role in the structural integrity and functionality of the cardiovascular system. Moreover, the ECM is involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation and stability. In fact, ECM remodeling affects plaque stability, cellular migration, and inflammatory responses. Collagens, fibronectin, laminin, elastin, and proteoglycans are crucial proteins during atherosclerosis development. This dynamic remodeling is driven by proteolytic enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), cathepsins, and serine proteases. Exploring and investigating ECM dynamics is an important step to designing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting ECM remodeling mechanisms, thus offering significant advantages in the management of cardiovascular diseases. This review illustrates the structure and role of vascular ECM, presenting a new perspective on ECM remodeling and its potential as a therapeutic target in atherosclerosis treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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21 pages, 1412 KiB  
Review
The Crucial Triad: Endothelial Glycocalyx, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Cardiac Surgery—Exploring the Molecular Connections
by Božena Ćurko-Cofek, Matej Jenko, Gordana Taleska Stupica, Lara Batičić, Antea Krsek, Tanja Batinac, Aleksandra Ljubačev, Marko Zdravković, Danijel Knežević, Maja Šoštarič and Vlatka Sotošek
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(20), 10891; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252010891 - 10 Oct 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2175
Abstract
Since its introduction, the number of heart surgeries has risen continuously. It is a high-risk procedure, usually involving cardiopulmonary bypass, which is associated with an inflammatory reaction that can lead to perioperative and postoperative organ dysfunction. The extent of complications following cardiac surgery [...] Read more.
Since its introduction, the number of heart surgeries has risen continuously. It is a high-risk procedure, usually involving cardiopulmonary bypass, which is associated with an inflammatory reaction that can lead to perioperative and postoperative organ dysfunction. The extent of complications following cardiac surgery has been the focus of interest for several years because of their impact on patient outcomes. Recently, numerous scientific efforts have been made to uncover the complex mechanisms of interaction between inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction that occur after cardiac surgery. Numerous factors, such as surgical and anesthetic techniques, hypervolemia and hypovolemia, hypothermia, and various drugs used during cardiac surgery trigger the development of systemic inflammatory response and the release of oxidative species. They affect the endothelium, especially endothelial glycocalyx (EG), a thin surface endothelial layer responsible for vascular hemostasis, its permeability and the interaction between leukocytes and endothelium. This review highlights the current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in endothelial dysfunction, particularly in the degradation of EG. In addition, the major inflammatory events and oxidative stress responses that occur in cardiac surgery, their interaction with EG, and the clinical implications of these events have been summarized and discussed in detail. A better understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac surgery, leading to endothelial dysfunction, is needed to improve patient management during and after surgery and to develop effective strategies to prevent adverse outcomes that complicate recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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18 pages, 1473 KiB  
Review
Role of miRNA in Cardiovascular Diseases in Children—Systematic Review
by Marta Pasławska, Aleksandra Grodzka, Joanna Peczyńska, Beata Sawicka and Artur Tadeusz Bossowski
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(2), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25020956 - 12 Jan 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2341
Abstract
The number of children suffering from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is rising globally. Therefore, there is an urgent need to acquire a better understanding of the genetic factors and molecular mechanisms related to the pathogenesis of CVDs in order to develop new prevention and [...] Read more.
The number of children suffering from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is rising globally. Therefore, there is an urgent need to acquire a better understanding of the genetic factors and molecular mechanisms related to the pathogenesis of CVDs in order to develop new prevention and treatment strategies for the future. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute a class of small non-coding RNA fragments that range from 17 to 25 nucleotides in length and play an essential role in regulating gene expression, controlling an abundance of biological aspects of cell life, such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, thus affecting immune response, stem cell growth, ageing and haematopoiesis. In recent years, the concept of miRNAs as diagnostic markers allowing discrimination between healthy individuals and those affected by CVDs entered the purview of academic debate. In this review, we aimed to systematise available information regarding miRNAs associated with arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, myocarditis and congenital heart diseases in children. We focused on the targeted genes and metabolic pathways influenced by those particular miRNAs, and finally, tried to determine the future of miRNAs as novel biomarkers of CVD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Perspective of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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