MicroRNAs in cardiac apoptosis.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small and highly conserved non-coding RNA molecules that function to regulate gene expression. They play important roles in regulating cardiac physiological and pathological events such as hypertrophy, apoptosis, and heart failure. Induction of apoptosis in cardiomyocytes cannot be compensated by efficient cell proliferation, thereby leading to pathophysiological disorders. The miRNAs involved in cardiac apoptosis may provide a mechanism for the pathogenesis and treatment of heart diseases. This review summarizes the role of miRNAs in regulating cardiac apoptosis. In particular, it discusses the potential therapeutic approaches for apoptosis-related cardiac diseases by modulating miRNAs.