Expression of circulating miR-17-92 cluster and HDAC9 gene in atherosclerotic patients with unstable and stable carotid plaques

Aims: The miR-17-92 cluster and HDAC9 gene are involved in inflammatory, apoptotic, and angiogenic processes that are activated in the vulnerable carotid plaque. The aim of this research was to determine whether expression of one or more of the miRs of the cluster and/or HDAC9 expression could represent biomarkers for patients with unstable atherosclerotic carotid plaques. Materials and Methods: Plasma levels of miRs and HDAC9 expression in peripheral blood were analyzed by real-time PCR in patients with histologically classified stable or unstable plaques. Results: No differences were observed between the two groups. Discussion and Conclusions: Levels of the miR-17-92 cluster in plasma and HDAC9 gene expression in peripheral blood cannot be considered appropriate biomarkers to identify patients with unstable plaques at risk of rupture.