Title:Biomarkers of Aspirin Resistance
Volume: 3
Issue: 1
Author(s): Subhashini Yaturu
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Aggregometry, aspirin resistance, cyclooxygenase 1, 11-dehydrothromboxane B2, mean platelet volume, PlA polymorphism,
P-selectin, UDP-glucuronosyl transferase, COX-1, CYP450 system
Abstract: Aspirin therapy is the cornerstone of therapy and is considered as the “gold standard” antiplatelet agent for
primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. Aspirin inhibits the COX-1 enzyme and therefore blocks
platelet thromboxane A2 synthesis. Several recent studies have suggested that some patients may not get the full benefits
of aspirin therapy. These findings raise the question that some patients may be resistant to aspirin's antiplatelet effects.
There is no universally accepted definition of aspirin resistance (AR). The exact mechanisms leading to AR are not very
well understood but are likely multi-factorial. Several point-of-care assays of platelet function have been developed in recent
years to rapidly screen individuals on aspirin as anti-platelet therapy. The ideal test would be capable of distinguishing
individuals at risk of ischemic and bleeding events and could be used to guide dose adjustments in therapy. Utility of
currently available tests in identifying aspirin-resistant patients remains to be determined. No data exist to guide aspirin
therapy on the basis of platelet function test results. This article includes what AR means, the mechanisms, and clinical
relevance of AR including platelet activity, methods to identify aspirin resistance, management of AR and relevant patents.
