Modulation of microRNAs by aspirin in cardiovascular disease

Aspirin is among the most widely prescribed drugs in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases for both primary and secondary prevention. The major mechanisms underlying its benefits are the inhibitory effects on platelet activation and prostanoid biosynthesis induced by COX-1 and COX-2 inactivation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are newly proposed mediators of the effects of aspirin. In this review, we summarize the evidence on the links between miRNAs and aspirin use in relation to cardiovascular diseases. In addition, we discuss the studies suggesting a possible role for miRNAs as biomarkers of aspirin resistance, a condition during which atherothrombotic events occur despite aspirin use, and which affects a considerable proportion of patients with cardiovascular disease.