Angiology: Open Access
Open Access

Functions of non-coding RNAs in regulating cardiac development

Prashant Kumar^{* *}Correspondence: Prashant Kumar, Department of Internal Medicine, Reichman University, Herzliya, Israel, Email:

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Description

The intricate symphony of cardiac development is orchestrated by a multitude of genetic factors and molecular processes. While protein-coding genes have long been the focus of cardiovascular research, a new player has emerged in recent years, captivating the attention of scientists : non-coding Ribonucleic Acid (ncRNAs). These molecules, which do not code for proteins but are essential for regulating gene expression, are proving to be critical players in the complex choreography of cardiac development. In this article, we will explore the functions of non-coding RNAs in the context of cardiac development, shedding light on their role in heart formation and maintenance.

Types of non-coding RNAs in cardiac development

Non-coding RNAs can be broadly categorized into two main groups: Small non-coding RNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Each of these plays unique roles in shaping the developing heart.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs): miRNAs are short ncRNAs, typically 19-25 nucleotides in length,that function as post-transcriptional regulators. They bind to messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and inhibit their translation or promote degradation. In cardiac development, miRNAs like miR-1, miR-133, and miR-208 have been identified as key players. They influence processes such as cardiomyocyte proliferation, differentiation, and contractility.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs): lncRNAs are a diverse group of ncRNAs that are longer than 200 nucleotides. They have been implicated in various aspects of cardiac development, including heart morphogenesis, chamber specification, and maintenance of cardiac function. One notable example is brave heart, which is essential for the formation of cardiac progenitor cells.

Functions of non-coding RNAs in cardiac development

Regulation of cardiomyocyte proliferation and differentiation: miRNAs like miR-1 and miR-133 have been shown to control the balance between cardiomyocyte proliferation and differentiation. They suppress genes that promote cell cycle exit, allowing cardiomyocytes to continue dividing during embryonic development.

Cardiac morphogenesis and chamber specification: lncRNAs like Braveheart play pivotal roles in the establishment of cardiac progenitor cells and the determination of cardiac chamber fates. These molecules help define the structural and functional diversity of the heart.

Maintenance of cardiac function: ncRNAs are crucial for the maintenance of cardiac function throughout an individual's life. miR-208, for example, regulates cardiac contractility and hypertrophy in response to stress or injury.

Epigenetic regulation: Some lncRNAs participate in epigenetic regulation, influencing chromatin structure and gene expression patterns during cardiac development. They guide chromatinmodifying complexes to specific genomic loci, affecting gene activation or repression.

Response to cardiac stress and disease: Non-coding RNAs also play a role in the heart's response to pathological conditions. Certain miRNAs are involved in the regulation of fibrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis in the context of cardiac disease.

While the significance of non-coding RNAs in cardiac development is becoming increasingly evident, there are still many challenges to be addressed. Researchers are working to decipher the complex networks of interactions between ncRNAs, mRNAs, and proteins in the context of heart development. Additionally, the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting ncRNAs holds promise for the treatment of congenital heart defects and heart diseases.

Conclusion

The emerging field of non-coding RNAs in cardiac development has unveiled a new layer of complexity in our understanding of heart formation and function. These molecules, once considered genetic "dark matter," are now recognized as essential regulators of cardiogenesis. As research in this area continues to advance, it offers exciting prospects for the development of innovative therapies and interventions to improve cardiac health and address congenital heart disorders and heart disease. Noncoding RNAs are indeed the hidden conductors of the intricate symphony of cardiac development.