The role of DEAD-box helicases in cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, characterized by complex pathological mechanisms involving myocardial metabolic disorders, vascular dysfunction, and uncontrolled inflammation. DEAD-box (DDX) helicases, a large family of RNA helicases within Superfamily 2 (SF2), are increasingly recognized as pivotal regulators of RNA metabolism, including transcription, splicing, translation, and degradation, via their conserved helicase core and variable terminal domains. Beyond maintaining RNA homeostasis, DDX helicases participate in diverse cellular processes such as cell proliferation, immunity, and stress responses, with emerging roles in CVD pathogenesis.