NF-κB-dependent miR-31/155 biogenesis is essential for TNF-α-induced impairment of endothelial progenitor cell function

Inflammatory vascular disease: miRNAs in blood vessel damage miRNA molecules that inhibit the activity of specific genes are implicated in a cellular control network involved in some of the damaging effects of inflammation on blood vessels. Researchers in South Korea led by Young-Myeong Kim at Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, identified the link by studying cells from patients with the inflammatory condition pre-eclampsia, characterized by hypertension. They found that two miRNAs, miR-31 and miR-155, are involved in molecular signaling processes that impair the production of endothelial progenitor cells lining blood vessels, which is essential for maintenance and repair. The research also identified the key protein eNOS involved in the miRNA molecules’ mechanism of action. Understanding these miRNAs and the protein involved in their production and action may help researchers develop new treatments for blood vessel diseases associated with inflammation.