Long non-coding RNA-SRA promotes neointimal hyperplasia and vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation via MEK-ERK-CREB pathway

Abstract Long noncoding RNA-steroid receptor RNA activator (LncRNA-SRA) is transcribed from a class of noncoding genes, and plays a critical role in regulating cell proliferation. However, the effect of lncRNA-SRA remains unclear in vascular proliferative diseases. In the present study, we overexpressed lncRNA-SRA in vitro , then investigated the biological consequences. A vascular damage mice model was constructed by performing femoral artery wire injury. LncRNA-SRA was overexpressed in the injured arteries, and significantly promoted the expression of ki67, thereby caused an overall increase in neointima formation. LncRNA-SRA overexpression led to the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). By stimulating the phosphorylation of MEK, ERK and CREB (cyclic nucleotide responsive element binding protein), lncRNA-SRA promoted VSMC proliferation. Meanwhile, these effects were blocked by the MEK inhibitor U0126. Therefore, lncRNA-SRA promoted VSMC proliferation by activating the MEK-ERK-CREB pathway. LncRNA-SRA could be a promising therapeutic target in vascular diseases characterized by neointimal hyperplasia.