Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell (vSMC) dysfunction is a critical contributor
to cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, restenosis, and
vein graft failure. Recent advances have unveiled a fascinating breadth
of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play a pivotal role in regulating vSMC
function. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the
mechanisms underlying vSMC dysfunction and the therapeutic potential of
various ncRNAs in mitigating this dysfunction, either preventing or
reversing it. We explore the intricate interplay of microRNAs,
long-non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs, shedding light on their roles in
regulating key signalling pathways associated with vSMC dysfunction.
Moreover, we discuss the prospects and challenges associated with
developing ncRNA based therapies for this prevalent cardiovascular
pathology.