Diagnostic value of circulating miRNAs: association with the presence and extension of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with suspected ischemic heart disease

Abstract

[Aim] Circulating miRNAs have been proposed as biomarkers of ischemic heart disease (IHD). Nonetheless, most studies are based on small case-control approaches, with inadequate consideration of comorbidities and medications, and no comparison with established biomarkers. We have previously demonstrated the potential of miR-24-3p and miR-130a-3p as indicators of coronary atherosclerosis. Here, we determined the diagnostic value of both miRNAs in a real-world cohort of patients with suspected IHD.

[Methods] Plasma samples were collected from 105 consecutive patients referred for computed tomography angiography (CCTA) for evaluation of suspected IHD. Presence and extension of coronary atherosclerosis were evaluated as previously described. Circulating miRNAs were analyzed using RT-qPCR.

[Results] Circulating levels of miR-130a-3p were significantly reduced in patients with significant coronary stenosis (narrowing > 50 % of the reference luminal diameter) compared to patients without stenosis or non-significant stenosis (narrowing 1-49 % of the reference luminal diameter) (P < 0.050). No differences were observed for miR-24-3p or us-CRP. Circulating levels of miR-24-3p and miR-130a-3p were reduced in patients with higher extension of coronary atherosclerosis [segment involvement score (SIS) > 5] (P < 0.050). After adjustment for potential confounders (risk factors and medications), circulating miR-130a-3p levels were inversely associated with the extension of coronary atherosclerosis (P < 0.050 for all regression models). No association was observed with miR-24-3p or us-CRP. The addition of miR-130a-3p to a model of coronary atherosclerosis resulted in a higher area under the ROC curve.

[Conclusions] Circulating miR-130a-3p is a potential biomarker of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with clinically suspected of IHD.