Investigating the Role of MicroRNA in Cardiac Fibrosis

By Aaya Chamat, Nick Verity, Phoebe Philpott, Andrea Caporali

EMS300 Student Conference 2026

Slide 1: Investigating the Role of microRNA in Cardiac Fibrosis. A full description follows.

Summary

The presentation explores the role of microRNA, specifically miR-26b, in cardiac fibrosis through a lab-based Honours dissertation project. It outlines the background on cardiac fibrosis, detailing the pathophysiology involving fibroblast activation and differentiation. Methodology includes qPCR, ECIS, and ICC to assess gene expression and cell behaviour in wild-type and miR-26b knockout mouse cardiac fibroblasts. Key findings indicate altered fibroblast motility and potential implications for fibrosis. The discussion highlights the need for further research into fibroblast phenotype changes and their consequences.