ROLE OF MIR-124 IN MODULATING ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE FORMATION VIA ITGB1: IMPLICATIONS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH IN ATHLETES

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the differential expression of miR-124 and its target gene ITGB1 in carotid atherosclerotic plaques of athletes, focusing on implications for cardiovascular health in sports. Methods: A cohort of forty-two athletes with carotid artery stenosis undergoing carotid endarterectomy at the Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University from December 2022 to December 2023 served as the case group. These athletes were further categorized into 22 with stable plaques and 20 with vulnerable plaques based on carotid ultrasonography findings. Additionally, 30 healthy athletes without carotid atherosclerosis, confirmed via carotid ultrasonography at our physical examination center, comprised the control group. Blood samples and carotid plaque tissues were collected for analysis of serum IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, miR-124, and ITGB1 levels. Results: Significant differences were observed in the expression levels of inflammatory markers and ITGB1 between the groups. Vulnerable plaque athletes exhibited higher levels of IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and lower ITGB1 expression compared to other groups (p<0.05). Relative expression of miR-124 was significantly lower in athletes with vulnerable plaques (0.3 [0.21, 0.35]) compared to those in the stable plaque group (0.56 [0.49, 0.61]) and the control group (0.96 [0.94, 1.06]), p<0.001. ITGB1 expression was significantly downregulated in the stable plaque group compared to controls (P<0.01), and even lower in the vulnerable plaque group compared to the stable plaque group (P<0.01). Conclusion: The findings suggest that miR-124 may regulate the formation and stability of atherosclerotic plaques in athletes through targeting ITGB1, influenced by inflammatory processes. Understanding these mechanisms can help develop targeted strategies to improve cardiovascular health and performance in athletes, potentially reducing the risk of severe atherosclerotic events.