Non-coding RNA and aging

General scientific objectives:

We aim to unravel the role of non-coding RNAs in the process of aging of the cardiovascular system. Both long and short (microRNAs) non-coding RNAs are emerging as key regulatory factors of virtually all cellular and physiological processes. We particularly focus on the effects of aging on apoptosis and dysfunction of cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. Using miRNA micro-array and next generation sequencing screens of aged mouse organs in comparison with young organs, we identified a number of long non-coding RNAs, miRNAs and proteins that play a crucial role in these processes. Currently we aim to understand the role of these single factors in the natural aging process, in order to diminish the adverse effects of aging on the cardiovascular system.
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