Topic: Long non-coding RNAs in the Epigenetic Regulation of Cardiac Diseases

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of gene expression through epigenetic pathways, significantly impacting cardiovascular health. Unlike protein-coding genes, lncRNAs influence cardiac processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and inflammation, contributing to the pathogenesis of various cardiac diseases, including heart failure, arrhythmias, ischemic disease, and cardiomyopathies.

This Special Issue aims to consolidate leading research on the diverse roles of lncRNAs in the epigenetic regulation of cardiac health and disease. We invite submissions on the following themes:

● Mechanisms of Action: Exploring how lncRNAs regulate transcription, chromatin remodeling, and post-transcriptional modifications in cardiac cells.

● lncRNAs and Cardiac Development: The role of lncRNAs in embryonic cardiac development and their potential impact on congenital heart defects.

● lncRNA-Mediated Pathways in Cardiac Remodeling: Insights into lncRNA involvement in hypertrophy, fibrosis, and metabolic reprogramming in heart disease.

● Biomarkers and Diagnostics: The potential of lncRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers for early detection and risk assessment in cardiovascular diseases.

● Therapeutic Strategies: Advancements in targeting lncRNAs for therapeutic purposes, including delivery methods and safety considerations.

● Interaction with Other ncRNAs: The interplay between lncRNAs and other non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs, in cardiac pathology.

● Sex-Specific Roles of lncRNAs in Cardiac Health: Investigating how lncRNA expression and function may differ between sexes and impact disease susceptibility.

By bringing together these insights, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of lncRNAs as central players in cardiac epigenetics and stimulate advancements in their clinical application. This issue will serve as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians striving to leverage lncRNAs to improve diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutics in cardiovascular medicine.