MicroRNAs as novel biomarkers in depression, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases

Diabetic, depressive, and cardiovascular disorders are leading causes of morbidity. In diabetics, symptoms of depression are associated with increased clinical complications. Diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The vascular depression hypothesis suggests that CVD can increase the risk of depression or exacerbate depression-related conditions. Several studies found a strong correlation between depression and pre-existing vascular disease and vice versa. Recent studies implicate microvascular dysfunction in the pathophysiology of depression and CVD. In addition, microRNAs are potent regulators of gene expression in physiological and pathophysiological processes affecting the microcirculation. We propose an interaction between diabetes mellitus, depression, and CVD involving changes in microcirculation and microRNA expression. Hence, studies are warranted to develop novel microRNA therapeutics and biomarkers to identify diabetic patients at increased risk of developing clinical complications of depression.