CircSMAD3 represses VSMC phenotype switching and neointima formation via promoting hnRNPA1 ubiquitination degradation
2025

CircSMAD3 and Its Role in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Behavior

Sample size: 6 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Mei Shuai, Ma Xiaozhu, Zhou Li, Wuyun Qidamugai, Cai Ziyang, Yan Jiangtao, Hu Ding

Primary Institution: Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology

Hypothesis

The study aims to identify the role of circSMAD3 in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype switching and proliferation.

Conclusion

CircSMAD3 acts as a novel regulator that suppresses VSMC proliferation and phenotype switching, potentially offering a new therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular diseases.

Supporting Evidence

  • CircSMAD3 was significantly downregulated in vascular injury and atherosclerosis.
  • CircSMAD3 silencing promoted VSMC proliferation and phenotype switching.
  • CircSMAD3 overexpression suppressed neointima formation in vivo.
  • CircSMAD3 interacts with hnRNPA1 to enhance its degradation.
  • CircSMAD3 modulates p53 pre-RNA splicing through hnRNPA1.

Takeaway

CircSMAD3 is like a helper that keeps blood vessel cells from changing into a less helpful form, which can cause problems in the heart.

Methodology

The study used transcriptome screening, in vitro assays with mouse and human vascular smooth muscle cells, and in vivo experiments in mice to assess the role of circSMAD3.

Limitations

The study did not confirm the function of circSMAD3 using transgenic or knockout mice, and the relationship between circSMAD3 and its parent gene SMAD3 was not established.

Participant Demographics

C57BL/6J mice aged 12 weeks were used for in vivo experiments.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1111/cpr.13742

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication