Unlocking cardiac health: exploring the role of class I HDACs in cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Translation modifications, particularly those involving histone deacetylases (HDACs), are crucial for regulating gene expression and have significant implications for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The association between HDACs and CVD has garnered significant research interest due to the pivotal role of HDACs in gene expression regulation and cellular function. Aberrant HDAC activity has been implicated in various pathological processes underlying CVD, including inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, hypertrophy, fibrosis, and atherosclerosis. This review explores the molecular mechanisms by which different HDAC isoforms influence cardiovascular pathology, highlighting evidence from preclinical and clinical studies. Emerging data suggest that HDAC inhibitors could offer therapeutic potential by modulating these processes and improving cardiovascular health. However, the precise isoform-specific roles and therapeutic window for HDAC inhibition in CVD remain to be elucidated. Furthermore, research is essential to identify the crucial and complex relationship between HDACs and cardiovascular health, which could pave the way for novel, targeted interventions for the treatment of CVD.

Keywords: Cardiac hypertrophy; Cardiovasular disease; Class I HDACs; Histone Deacetylase; Inhibitors.

Fig. 1

Risk factors, diagnosis and treatments of cardiovascular diseases

Fig. 2

The structures of HDACis used in preclinical cardiovascular disease models

Fig. 3

HDAC association with proteins and genes regulates cardiac hypertrophy

Fig. 4

HDAC association with proteins and genes regulates myocardial infarction

Fig. 5

HDAC association with proteins and genes regulates atherosclerosis

Fig. 6

HDAC association with proteins and genes regulates cardiac fibrosis

Fig. 7

HDAC association with proteins and genes regulates myocarditis