Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRs) could be a potential biomarker to identify early molecular alterations in the heart. HDL are the major carriers for miRs into the circulation. This study tested whether changes in the level of HDL could affect the diagnostic sensitivity of miRs.
Peripheral blood samples were collected from 20 diabetic and 22 age and gender matched non-diabetic patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery for ischemic heart disease (IHD). Total RNA was extracted from the separated plasma and stored in −80°C. Reverse transcription and amplification using specific primers against cardio-enriched miR-1, -34a, -126, -133, and -499 showed significant correlation between HDL levels and miR-1, -133 and -499. Importantly, normalization of miR levels with HDL showed a significant downregulation of miR-1, -133 and -499 in diabetic plasma, which was not observed before normalization with HDL levels.
Normalization of circulating miR levels with HDL increases the diagnostic sensitivity of circulating miRs.
•Positive correlation between circulating miRs and HDL levels is demonstrated.•Normalization of miRs with HDL level show significant decrease in cardio-enriched miRs in individuals with diabetes.•Results propose the need to normalize miRs levels with HDL to increase its sensitivity as diagnostic biomarkers.