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Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
MicroRNA Biomarkers and Platelet Reactivity: The Clot Thickens
Nicholas Sunderland1, Philipp Skroblin1, Temo Barwari1
1From the King's British Heart Foundation Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom (N.S., P.S., T.B., R.L., A.J., M.M.); and Centre for Cardiovascular Genetics, Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, United Kingdom (R.P.H., R.C.L.).
Abstract:
Over the last few years, several groups have evaluated the potential of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers for cardiometabolic disease. In this review, we discuss the emerging literature on the role of miRNAs and other small noncoding RNAs in platelets and in the circulation, and the potential use of miRNAs as biomarkers for platelet activation. Platelets are a major source of miRNAs, YRNAs, and circular RNAs. By harnessing multiomics approaches, we may gain valuable insights into their potential function. Because not all miRNAs are detectable in the circulation, we also created a gene ontology annotation for circulating miRNAs using the gene ontology term extracellular space as part of blood plasma. Finally, we share key insights for measuring circulating miRNAs. We propose ways to standardize miRNA measurements, in particular by using platelet-poor plasma to avoid confounding caused by residual platelets in plasma or by adding RNase inhibitors to serum to reduce degradation. This should enhance comparability of miRNA measurements across different cohorts. We provide recommendations for future miRNA biomarker studies, emphasizing the need for accurate interpretation within a biological and methodological context.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in platelets and circulation show promise as biomarkers for cardiometabolic disease. Standardizing measurements using platelet-poor plasma is key for reliable results.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their potential as biomarkers in cardiometabolic diseases.
- Platelets are a significant source of circulating small noncoding RNAs, including miRNAs, YRNAs, and circular RNAs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the emerging literature on miRNAs in platelets and circulation as biomarkers for platelet activation and cardiometabolic disease.
- To provide insights into measuring circulating miRNAs and standardize methodologies for improved comparability across studies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on miRNAs in platelets and circulation.
- Gene ontology annotation of circulating miRNAs using the term "extracellular space" in blood plasma.
- Analysis of multiomics approaches for understanding small noncoding RNA function.
Main Results:
- Platelets are a major source of various small noncoding RNAs.
- Not all miRNAs are consistently detectable in circulation; gene ontology analysis aids in understanding their localization.
- Standardized measurement techniques, such as using platelet-poor plasma or RNase inhibitors, can reduce variability.
Conclusions:
- Circulating miRNAs hold significant potential as biomarkers for cardiometabolic diseases and platelet activation.
- Standardization of miRNA measurement protocols is crucial for enhancing the comparability and reliability of biomarker studies.
- Future research should focus on accurate interpretation of miRNA biomarker data within biological and methodological contexts.
