Mechanosensitive microRNAs—role in endothelial responses to shear stress and redox state

Endothelial functions are highly regulated by imposed shear stress in vivo. The characteristics of shear stress determine mechanotransduction events that regulate phenotypic outcomes including redox and inflammatory states. Recent data indicate that microRNAs (miRs) in vascular endothelial cells play an essential role in shear stress-regulated endothelial responses. More specifically, atheroprotective pulsatile flow (PS) induces miRs that inhibit mediators of oxidative stress and inflammation while promoting those involved in maintaining vascular homeostasis. Conversely, oscillatory flow (OS) elicits the opposing networks. This is exemplified by the PS-responsive transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), which regulates miR expression but is also regulated by OS-sensitive miRs to ultimately regulate the oxidative and inflammatory state of the endothelium. In this review, we outline important findings demonstrating the multifaceted roles of shear stress-regulated miRs in endothelial redox and inflammatory balance. Furthermore, we discuss the use of algorithms in deciphering signaling networks differentially regulated by PS and OS. •Pulsatile flow-induced microRNAs are involved in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory networks.•Oscillatory flow-induced miRs are involved in pro-oxidant, proinflammatory networks.•Krüppel-like factor 2 maintains redox balance via miRs.•Algorithms can be used to uncover temporal miR regulation of redox networks.