CircRNA circ_0004058 Modulates Early Brain Injury in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Through miR-221-3p and VE1 Activation Pathway

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) frequently results in early brain injury (EBI), which remains a major barrier to favorable neurological recovery. Understanding the molecular underpinnings of EBI is crucial for developing targeted therapeutics. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as influential molecular players in various brain injury contexts. This study focuses on one such molecule, circ_0004058, examining its impact on EBI through interaction with miR-221-3p and the VE1 signaling pathway. Utilizing an established SAH rodent model, our team conducted a detailed investigation of the expression patterns and interactions involving circ_0004058. Our analyses revealed a significant post-SAH upregulation of circ_0004058, which affected miR-221-3p activity and VE1 signaling. Furthermore, functional modulation of circ_0004058 expression altered the severity of EBI, presenting evidence that it serves as a critical determinant in the injury process. The results suggest that circ_0004058 holds promise as a therapeutic target, offering new possibilities for the development of strategies to mitigate SAH-induced brain damage. Through this study, circ_0004058 is highlighted not only as a biomarker but also as a possible avenue for therapeutic modulation in SAH management.