Epigenetic modifications determine phenotypic characteristics in a reversible, stable and genotype-independent manner. Epigenetic modifications mainly encompass CpG island methylation and histone modifications, both being important in the pathogenesis of malignancies. The reversibility of epigenetic phenomenon provides a suitable therapeutic option that is reactivation of epigenetically silenced tumor-suppressor genes. Inhibition of DNA methyltransferase, histone deacetylase and Aurora B kinase, individually or collectively, could feasibly prevent or reverse the impact of epigenetic silencing. MicroRNAs [miRNAs] are an important layer of epigenetic controlling of gene expression, and serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers as well as treatment targets for several types of cancer. miRNAs are involved inepigenetically silencing or activation of genes, tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, and their modulation opens new horizons for designing novel cancer therapeutic agents.

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Aspirin is the most widely prescribed drug 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 on 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 and which affect a considerable proportion of patients with cardiovascular diseases.