Association between circulating microRNA, cardiometabolic biomarkers, and diet in adult individuals participating in a population-based study - ISA-Capital

Author(s)

Paula Nascimento Brandão Lima

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Saúde Pública (FSP/CIR)
• Defense date: 2024-03-13

Examining board members

Marcelo Macedo Rogero; Carla Barbosa Nonino

• Advisor: Marcelo Macedo Rogero

Abstract

Circulating microRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that could serve as potential biomarkers for non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) and a tool for therapeutic management. In light of this, the present study aimed to evaluate the expression profile of plasma microRNAs and examine their relationship with cardiometabolic biomarkers and diet in adult participants of a population-based study. This was a cross-sectional study with a subsample of 200 adults, aged 20 to 59 years, who participated in the ISA-Nutrition study conducted in São Paulo in 2015. The study evaluated the plasma expression profile of 21 microRNAs, anthropometric measurements, systemic blood pressure, glycemic, lipid, and inflammatory biomarkers of these individuals. Dietary intake was estimated through a 24-hour dietary recall. Different microRNA expression profiles were observed in plasma according to the presence of components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and individuals\' sex. Among the risk components for MetS, elevated waist circumference was positively associated with plasma expression of miR-let-7c, miR-122, miR-30a, miR-146a, miR-15a, miR-30d, and miR-222. From the analysis of generalized linear models, an association was observed between whole grain consumption and the expression of 17 microRNAs. Nut consumption was associated with lower plasma expression of miR-140 and miR-139, as well as increased expression of miR-let-7c, miR-122, and miR-222. Consumption of fruits, red meat, and sugary beverages showed no associations with the evaluated microRNAs. Based on the presented results, it is possible to conclude that plasma microRNA expression is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors and diet in adult individuals. In the presented context, the role of diet was highlighted as a tool for reducing NCD risk through modification of plasma microRNA expression. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/22934-1 - Association between circulating microRNA, cardiometabolic biomarkers and diet in adult individuals participants of a population-based study - ISA-Capital
• Grantee: Paula Nascimento Brandão Lima
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate