MicroRNAs and Hypertension

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding, highly conserved RNAs found in all biological fluids, that are emerging as master regulators of gene expression, consequently impacting a variety of biological processes in both healthy and diseased environments. There are still certain limitations regarding analysis of circulating miRNAs, specifically concerning standardisation and accuracy of obtained data. However, there is an indisputable therapeutic and diagnostic potential, confirmed by recent research. Hypertension, as one of the leading causes of death in modern world, has been in the focus of scientific society for several decades now. So, it is of outmost importance to investigate and pinpoint appropriate miRNAs for early indication and diagnosis of hypertension in general population. More in vivo and clinical research is necessary in animal and human models in order to exploit the full potential of this novel technology.