What role do miRNAs play in the injured heart of the infertile female?

Abstract

Due to numerous overlapping risk factors between cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and infertility, women of reproductive age with underlying CVD may increasingly seek reproductive assistance. miRNAs and exosomal miRNAs are well-known epigenetic modulators that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. A large body of evidence indicates the fundamental roles of various miRNAs in different aspects of both CVD and infertility. Dysregulation of miRNAs (including those carried by exosomes) could contribute to pathological alterations involved in CVD pathogenesis, potentially leading to female infertility-related disorders In particular, we emphasize how these miRNAs shape inflammatory, angiogenic and remodeling responses in the injured myocardium of infertile women. Herein, we review the roles of miRNAs in the development of CVD and female infertility. We also summarize recent research on the role of miRNAs in angiogenesis, including their targets and mechanisms of action. Understanding these mechanisms may facilitate the development of composite biomarkers and targeted diagnostic/therapeutic strategies for female infertility and cardiovascular disease, with a specific focus on myocardial injury.