Transcriptomic landscape of human circular RNAs: unveiling molecular mechanisms in high-altitude adaptation.
- Open access
Five key circular RNAs increase with altitude and may regulate hypoxia adaptation via HIF-1 pathways in humans at 3,000 m.
- Why it matters: Understanding molecular mechanisms of high-altitude adaptation is crucial for addressing health issues related to hypoxia and environmental stress in diverse populations.
- What they did: High-throughput transcriptomic analysis of male individuals from different altitudes identified differentially expressed circRNAs, especially five that interact with RBPs and respond to hypoxia.
- The result: These circRNAs' upregulation correlates with HIF-1 expression, suggesting they contribute to hypoxia-induced metabolic adaptation, providing insights into molecular responses to high-altitude environments.