The Potential Role of Platelet-Related microRNAs in the Development of Cardiovascular Events in High-Risk Populations, Including Diabetic Patients: A Review

Platelet activation plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, which often leads to potentially fatal ischemic events at later stages of the disease. Platelets and platelet microvesicles (PMVs) contain large amounts of microRNA (miRNA), which contributes largely to the pool of circulating miRNAs. Hence, they represent a promising option for the development of innovative diagnostic biomarkers, that can be specific for the underlying etiology. Circulating miRNAs can be responsible for intracellular communication and may have a biological effect on target cells. As miRNAs associated to both cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and diabetes mellitus can be measured by means of a wide array of techniques, they can be exploited as an innovative class of smart disease biomarkers. In this manuscript, we provide an outline of miRNAs associated with platelet function and reactivity (miR-223, miR-126, miR-197, miR-191, miR-21, miR-150, miR-155, miR-140, miR-96, miR-98) that should be evaluated as novel biomarkers to improve diagnostics and treatment of CVD.

Sexual dysfunction in female patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is one of the common symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is often underdiagnosed, especially in women. Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is the most widespread form of the disease, but the data on SD occurrence in this particular group of patients is limited. The aim of the study was to analyze the associations between demographic factors, symptoms and signs of MS, psychiatric comorbidities and SD in female patients with RRMS.

MATERIAL & METHODS

A subgroup of 86 sexually active women with RRMS out of 218 total MS respondents was analyzed. Exclusion criteria included active relapse, EDSS score equal or higher than 6.5, and current pregnancy. All patients completed questionnaires including demographic data, questions about symptoms and signs of MS, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for sexual performance, Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) for depression, and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) for fatigue evaluation.

RESULTS

According to FSFI, SD occurred in 21 (27.27%) of the respondents. SD occurrence was associated with depression (p < .05) and speech disturbances (p < .04). A negative effect on sexual performance was associated with depression intensity (p < .003), fatigue intensity (p < .05), more advanced age at diagnosis (p < .02), lower education level (p < .05), and smaller area of residence (p < .002).

CONCLUSIONS

SD in women with RRMS is mostly associated with psychosocial parameters. Patients who are more depressed, presenting speech problems, less educated, and from smaller towns, should be considered high-risk for sexual dysfunction.