New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet

A special issue of Biomolecules (ISSN 2218-273X). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Biology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2024) | Viewed by 13486

Special Issue Editors

Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
Interests: platelet signaling; ion homeostasis; channelopathies; SOCE; megakaryopoiesis

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Guest Editor
Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
Interests: tumor microenvironment; circulating blood cells; platelets; cancer-associated thrombosis; inflammatory ecosystem of tumors
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Platelets are small, disc-shaped blood cells that play a vital role in hemostasis, or the prevention of bleeding after vessel injury. Although platelets have long been known to be involved in thrombosis, recent research has revealed new biological functions of these cells in other pathological complications, such as sepsis, diabetes, fibrosis, myocardial infarction, vasculitis, and cancer metastasis. Platelets have been found to interact with immune cells, such as neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes, and modulate their effector functions. They can directly recognize and respond to bacterial and viral pathogens and release antimicrobial peptides and cytokines, which can help fight infections. Platelets can also interact with endothelial cells, leukocytes, and other inflammatory cells, releasing inflammatory mediators, such as thromboxane A2 (TXA2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). These mediators can recruit and activate immune cells, promote vasodilation and vascular permeability, and enhance the production of cytokines and chemokines. In sepsis or virus infection, activated platelets promote extracellular trap formation and intravascular coagulation. Moreover, platelets contain growth factors, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which promote tissue healing and regeneration. These growth factors can stimulate the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells, thereby supporting angiogenesis. Finally, platelets have been found to play a role in different steps of tumor progression. They directly interact with cancer cells, promoting their survival and transmigration through the endothelium, leading to tumor metastasis. Platelets contribute to the formation of the pre-metastatic niche by promoting the recruitment and activation of immune cells and by releasing cytokines and growth factors that support angiogenesis and tumor cell survival. Additionally, platelets can modulate the response of cancer cells to immunotherapy and chemotherapy, promoting tumor cell survival and resistance to these treatments. Recent research has revealed important insights into the complex interplay between platelets, immune and cancer cells, leading to new discoveries of platelets in cancer-associated thrombosis and thrombo-inflammation.

Our open-access journal, Biomolecules, is currently hosting an important Special Issue entitled “New Discoveries in the Biological Functions of Platelets”, including the indicated topics. The submission deadline for this Special Issue is 1 October 2023. You are welcome to submit your manuscript now or at any point up until the deadline.

Dr. Attila Braun
Dr. Elmina Mammadova-Bach
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • platelets
  • thrombosis
  • sepsis
  • coagulopathy
  • blood clotting
  • diabetes
  • vascular integrity/permeability
  • wound healing
  • tissue regeneration
  • fibrosis
  • vasculitis
  • immune cells
  • inflammation
  • extracellular traps
  • angiogenesis
  • tumor growth and metastasis
  • anti-platelet and anti-thrombotic therapies

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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10 pages, 3890 KiB  
Article
Microfluidic System-Based Quantitative Analysis of Platelet Function through Speckle Size Measurement
by Jong Hyeok Han, Inkwon Yoon and Hee-Jae Jeon
Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060612 - 23 May 2024
Viewed by 1106
Abstract
Platelets play essential roles in the formation of blood clots by clumping with coagulation factors at the site of vascular injury to stop bleeding; therefore, a reduction in the platelet number or disorder in their function causes bleeding risk. In our research, we [...] Read more.
Platelets play essential roles in the formation of blood clots by clumping with coagulation factors at the site of vascular injury to stop bleeding; therefore, a reduction in the platelet number or disorder in their function causes bleeding risk. In our research, we developed a method to assess platelet aggregation using an optical approach within a microfluidic chip’s channel by evaluating the size of laser speckles. These speckles, associated with slowed blood flow in the microfluidic channel, had a baseline size of 28.54 ± 0.72 µm in whole blood. Removing platelets from the sample led to a notable decrease in speckle size to 27.04 ± 1.23 µm. Moreover, the addition of an ADP-containing agonist, which activates platelets, resulted in an increased speckle size of 32.89 ± 1.69 µm. This finding may provide a simple optical method via microfluidics that could be utilized to assess platelet functionality in diagnosing bleeding disorders and potentially in monitoring therapies that target platelets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet)
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15 pages, 2728 KiB  
Article
Mind the Gap: Model-Based Switching from Selatogrel to Maintenance Therapy with Oral P2Y12 Receptor Antagonists
by Chih-hsuan Hsin, Jasper Dingemanse, Andrea Henrich, Corine Bernaud, Martine Gehin and Andreas Krause
Biomolecules 2023, 13(9), 1365; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom13091365 - 8 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1397
Abstract
Background: The P2Y12 receptor antagonist selatogrel is being developed for subcutaneous self-administration with a ready-to-use autoinjector at the onset of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) symptoms. The unique pharmacological profile of selatogrel (fast, potent, and short-acting) can bridge the time gap between the [...] Read more.
Background: The P2Y12 receptor antagonist selatogrel is being developed for subcutaneous self-administration with a ready-to-use autoinjector at the onset of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) symptoms. The unique pharmacological profile of selatogrel (fast, potent, and short-acting) can bridge the time gap between the onset of AMI and first medical care. A clinical Phase 1 study showed a time-dependent pharmacodynamic interaction between selatogrel and loading doses of clopidogrel and prasugrel. As treatment switching is a common clinical practice, the assessment of subsequent switching from a clopidogrel loading dose to the first maintenance dose of oral P2Y12 receptor antagonists is highly relevant. Objectives: Model-based predictions of inhibition of platelet aggregation (IPA) for the drugs triggering pharmacodynamic interactions were to be derived to support clinical guidance on the transition from selatogrel to oral P2Y12 receptor antagonists. Methods: Scenarios with selatogrel 16 mg administration or placebo followed by a clopidogrel loading dose and, in turn, prasugrel or ticagrelor maintenance doses at different times of administration were studied. Population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling and simulations of different treatment scenarios were used to derive quantitative estimates for IPA over time. Results: Following selatogrel/placebo and a clopidogrel loading dose, maintenance treatment with ticagrelor or a prasugrel loading dose followed by maintenance treatment quickly achieved sustained IPA levels above 80%. Prior to maintenance treatment, a short time span from 18 to 24 h was identified where IPA levels were predicted to be lower with selatogrel than with placebo if clopidogrel was administered 12 h after selatogrel or placebo. Predicted IPA levels reached with placebo alone and a clopidogrel loading dose at 4 h were consistently lower than with selatogrel administration, followed by a clopidogrel loading dose at 12 h. If a clopidogrel loading dose is administered at 12 h, selatogrel maintains higher IPA levels up to 16 h. IPA levels are subsequently lower than on the placebo until the administration of the first maintenance dose. Conclusions: Model-based predictions informed the transition from selatogrel subcutaneous administration to oral P2Y12 therapy. The application of modeling techniques illustrates the value of employing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling for the simulation of various clinical scenarios of switching therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet)
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17 pages, 971 KiB  
Review
Aspirin Hypersensitivity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: An Updated Review and Practical Recommendations
by Luigi Cappannoli, Stefania Colantuono, Francesco Maria Animati, Francesco Fracassi, Mattia Galli, Cristina Aurigemma, Enrico Romagnoli, Rocco Antonio Montone, Mattia Lunardi, Lazzaro Paraggio, Carolina Ierardi, Ilaria Baglivo, Cristiano Caruso, Carlo Trani and Francesco Burzotta
Biomolecules 2024, 14(10), 1329; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14101329 - 19 Oct 2024
Viewed by 983
Abstract
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) represents a cornerstone of antiplatelet therapy for the treatment of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD). ASA is in fact indicated in case of an acute coronary syndrome or after a percutaneous coronary intervention with stent implantation. Aspirin hypersensitivity is frequently [...] Read more.
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) represents a cornerstone of antiplatelet therapy for the treatment of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD). ASA is in fact indicated in case of an acute coronary syndrome or after a percutaneous coronary intervention with stent implantation. Aspirin hypersensitivity is frequently reported by patients, and this challenging situation requires a careful evaluation of the true nature of the presumed sensitivity and of its mechanisms, as well as to differentiate it from a more frequent (and more easily manageable) aspirin intolerance. Two main strategies are available to allow ASA administration for patients with CAD and suspected ASA hypersensitivity: a low-dose ASA challenge, aimed at assessing the tolerability of ASA at the antiplatelet dose of 100 mg, and desensitization, a therapeutic procedure which aims to induce tolerance to ASA. For those patients who cannot undergo ASA challenge and desensitization due to previous serious adverse reactions, or for those in whom desensitization was unsuccessful, a number of further alternative strategies are available, even if these have not been validated and approved by guidelines. The aim of this state-of-the-art review is therefore to summarize the established evidence regarding pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of aspirin hypersensitivity and to provide a practical guide for cardiologists (and clinicians) who have to face the not uncommon situation of a patient with concomitant coronary artery disease and aspirin hypersensitivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet)
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23 pages, 1126 KiB  
Review
Platelet-Rich Therapies in Hernia Repair: A Comprehensive Review of the Impact of Platelet Concentrates on Mesh Integration in Hernia Management
by Elissavet Anestiadou, Efstathios Kotidis, Ioanna Abba Deka, Dimitrios Tatsis, Chryssa Bekiari, Antonia Loukousia, Orestis Ioannidis, Stavros Stamiris, Konstantinos Zapsalis, Christos Xylas, Konstantinos Siozos, Christiana Chatzianestiadou, Stamatios Angelopoulos, Theodosios Papavramidis and Angeliki Cheva
Biomolecules 2024, 14(8), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14080921 - 29 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1064
Abstract
Mesh-augmented hernia repair is the gold standard in abdominal wall and hiatal/diaphragmatic hernia management and ranks among the most common procedures performed by general surgeons. However, it is associated with a series of drawbacks, including recurrence, mesh infection, and adhesion formation. To address [...] Read more.
Mesh-augmented hernia repair is the gold standard in abdominal wall and hiatal/diaphragmatic hernia management and ranks among the most common procedures performed by general surgeons. However, it is associated with a series of drawbacks, including recurrence, mesh infection, and adhesion formation. To address these weaknesses, numerous biomaterials have been investigated for mesh coating. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous agent that promotes tissue healing through numerous cytokines and growth factors. In addition, many reports highlight its contribution to better integration of different types of coated meshes, compared to conventional uncoated meshes. The use of PRP-coated meshes for hernia repair has been reported in the literature, but a review of technical aspects and outcomes is missing. The aim of this comprehensive review is to report the experimental studies investigating the synergistic use of PRP and mesh implants in hernia animal models. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus without chronological constraints. In total, fourteen experimental and three clinical studies have been included. Among experimental trials, synthetic, biologic, and composite meshes were used in four, nine, and one study, respectively. In synthetic meshes, PRP-coating leads to increased antioxidant levels and collaged deposition, reduced oxidative stress, and improved inflammatory response, while studies on biological meshes revealed increased neovascularization and tissue integration, reduced inflammation, adhesion severity, and mechanical failure rates. Finally, PRP-coating of composite meshes results in reduced adhesions and improved mechanical strength. Despite the abundance of preclinical data, there is a scarcity of clinical studies, mainly due to the absence of an established protocol regarding PRP preparation and application. To this point in time, PRP has been used as a coating agent for the repair of abdominal and diaphragmatic hernias, as well as for mesh fixation. Clinical application of conclusions drawn from experimental studies may lead to improved results in hernia repair. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet)
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23 pages, 3473 KiB  
Review
Advances in Platelet-Dysfunction Diagnostic Technologies
by Inkwon Yoon, Jong Hyeok Han and Hee-Jae Jeon
Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060714 - 17 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2615
Abstract
The crucial role of platelets in hemostasis and their broad implications under various physiological conditions underscore the importance of accurate platelet-function testing. Platelets are key to clotting blood and healing wounds. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and management of platelet disorders are vital for patient [...] Read more.
The crucial role of platelets in hemostasis and their broad implications under various physiological conditions underscore the importance of accurate platelet-function testing. Platelets are key to clotting blood and healing wounds. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and management of platelet disorders are vital for patient care. This review outlines the significant advancements in platelet-function testing technologies, focusing on their working principles and the shift from traditional diagnostic methods to more innovative approaches. These improvements have deepened our understanding of platelet-related disorders and ushered in personalized treatment options. Despite challenges such as interpretation of complex data and the costs of new technologies, the potential for artificial-intelligence integration and the creation of wearable monitoring devices offers exciting future possibilities. This review underscores how these technological advances have enhanced the landscape of precision medicine and provided better diagnostic and treatment options for platelet-function disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet)
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20 pages, 1164 KiB  
Review
Platelet and HIV Interactions and Their Contribution to Non-AIDS Comorbidities
by Thomas Awamura, Elizabeth S. Nakasone, Louie Mar Gangcuangco, Natalie T. Subia, Aeron-Justin Bali, Dominic C. Chow, Cecilia M. Shikuma and Juwon Park
Biomolecules 2023, 13(11), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom13111608 - 2 Nov 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5204
Abstract
Platelets are anucleate cytoplasmic cell fragments that circulate in the blood, where they are involved in regulating hemostasis. Beyond their normal physiologic role, platelets have emerged as versatile effectors of immune response. During an infection, cell surface receptors enable platelets to recognize viruses, [...] Read more.
Platelets are anucleate cytoplasmic cell fragments that circulate in the blood, where they are involved in regulating hemostasis. Beyond their normal physiologic role, platelets have emerged as versatile effectors of immune response. During an infection, cell surface receptors enable platelets to recognize viruses, resulting in their activation. Activated platelets release biologically active molecules that further trigger host immune responses to protect the body against infection. Their impact on the immune response is also associated with the recruitment of circulating leukocytes to the site of infection. They can also aggregate with leukocytes, including lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils, to immobilize pathogens and prevent viral dissemination. Despite their host protective role, platelets have also been shown to be associated with various pathophysiological processes. In this review, we will summarize platelet and HIV interactions during infection. We will also highlight and discuss platelet and platelet-derived mediators, how they interact with immune cells, and the multifaceted responsibilities of platelets in HIV infection. Furthermore, we will give an overview of non-AIDS comorbidities linked to platelet dysfunction and the impact of antiretroviral therapy on platelet function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Biological Functions of Platelet)
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