Circular RNAs in Cardiovascular Diseases

Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a group of circular RNA molecules with a 3', 5'-phosphodiester bond at the junction site, are generated by back-splicing of precursor mRNAs. Most of the circular RNAs originate from the exon region of the encoded protein, and some are derived from intron regions, antisense transcripts, or long noncoding RNAs. Circular RNAs are abundantly in eukaryotic transcriptome and participate in various biological processes. It is closely associated with various diseases such as tumors, diabetes, nervous system diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. In cardiovascular system, numerous circRNAs have been identified and involved in important processes of cardiovascular development and diseases. Here we will review the latest research progress of circular RNA in cardiovascular diseases. Also, we will outline the specific examples of circRNAs involved in cardiovascular system regulatory effects, including act as miRNA sponges, interaction with RNA-binding proteins, regulated by RNA-binding proteins and serve as biomarkers. In addition, potential mechanisms underlying the regulatory role of circRNAs in cardiovascular diseases will be discussed.