The Role of Selected Epigenetic Pathways in Cardiovascular Diseases as a Potential Therapeutic Target

Abstract

Epigenetics is a rapidly developing science that has gained a lot of interest in recent years due to the correlation between characteristic epigenetic marks and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Epigenetic modifications contribute to a change in gene expression while maintaining the DNA sequence. The analysis of these modifications provides a thorough insight into the cardiovascular system from its development to its further functioning. Epigenetics is strongly influenced by environmental factors, including known cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, obesity, and low physical activity. Similarly, conditions affecting the local microenvironment of cells, such as chronic inflammation, worsen the prognosis in cardiovascular diseases and additionally induce further epigenetic modifications leading to the consolidation of unfavorable cardiovascular changes. A deeper understanding of epigenetics may provide an answer to the continuing strong clinical impact of cardiovascular diseases by improving diagnostic capabilities, personalized medical approaches and the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. The aim of the study was to present selected epigenetic pathways, their significance in cardiovascular diseases, and their potential as a therapeutic target in specific medical conditions.

Keywords: TET enzymes; cardiovascular diseases; epigenetics; heart failure; ten-eleven translocation enzymes.

Figure 1

Major epigenetic mechanisms involved in CVDs.

Figure 2

The pro-inflammatory epigenetic landscape as a result of adverse environmental interactions in the development of CVDs. The arrow indicates cause and effect.