Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is among the most prevalent and impactful rheumatologic chronic autoimmune diseases (AIDs) worldwide. Within a framework that recognizes both immunological activation and inflammatory pathways, the exact cause of RA remains unclear. It seems however, that RA is initiated by a combination between genetic susceptibility, and environmental triggers, which result in an auto-perpetuating process. The subsequently, systemic inflammation associated with RA is linked with a variety of extra-articular comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), resulting in increased mortality and morbidity. Hitherto, vast evidence demonstrated the key role of non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs) in RA, and in RA-CVD related complications. In this descriptive review, we aim to highlight the specific role of miRNAs in autoimmune processes, explicitly on their regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of RA, and its CV consequences, their main role as novel biomarkers, and their possible role as therapeutic targets.
Keywords: CVD; RA; atherosclerosis; cardiovascular complications; miRNAs; microRNAs; myocardial infarction; pericarditis; rheumatoid arthritis.