Based on the understanding that miR-1 remains increased in VMC, the risk of cardiac arrhythmias may be increased due to Cx43 downregulation; however, in this case, the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes should be alleviated, suggesting a potentially protective role of both miR-1 and miR-133. This evidence concerns the gene GJA1 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.