Unlocking the Potential of MicroRNA Expression: Biomarkers for Platelet Reactivity and Coronary Artery Disease.

Abstract

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with platelet reactivity playing a central role in its pathogenesis. Recent research has identified microRNAs (miRNAs; miRs) as potential biomarkers for CAD, due to their ability to regulate platelet function and reactivity. This review focuses on four key miRNAs-miR-223, miR-126, miR-21, and miR-150-known to influence platelet reactivity and their implications in CAD. miR-223, which is highly expressed in platelets, has shown associations with CAD and myocardial infarction, while miR-126 has been linked to thrombus formation and vascular health. Additionally, miR-21 and miR-150 have also emerged as important players, with roles in platelet reactivity and cardiovascular outcomes. However, despite their potential, the use of miRNAs as clinical biomarkers faces several challenges, including variability in reported results across studies. These inconsistencies often arise from differences in sample material, preanalytical conditions, and normalization strategies. Furthermore, the influence of antiplatelet therapy on miRNA expression adds another layer of complexity, making it difficult to determine whether observed changes in miRNA levels are due to disease states or therapeutic interventions. This review therefore highlights the need for standardization in miRNA research to enhance the reliability of findings. By addressing these methodological challenges, miRNAs could become powerful tools in personalized medicine, aiding in the development of tailored therapeutic strategies for CAD patients and ultimately improving clinical outcomes.