The Role of Platelet microRNAs in Cancer

There is strong evidence that platelets significantly contribute to cancer progression. Numerous studies have shown that microRNAs in platelet microvesicles play an important role in different stages of cancer and can serve as new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Since platelet microRNAs have opposing purposes, it is challenging to make clear-cut judgements regarding their involvement in carcinogenesis. However, it is well known that the processes regulated by microRNAs in cancer include cell proliferation, cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer metastasis, and angiogenesis. This review focusses on and summarizes current research in the field of platelet-cancer interactions and discusses the role of platelet microRNAs in cancer development, which is a promising area for future research and therapeutic development.