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New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Biology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 February 2025 | Viewed by 13760

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Platelets, best known as the primary mediators of hemostasis and thrombosis, are a critical component of blood vessel walls. As secretory cells, platelets can release multiple substances from storage granules and membrane vesicles, such as biomediators, influencing both physiological and pathophysiological processes. Conversely, platelets can uptake plasma and cellular components, influencing platelet responsiveness. The analysis of platelet function through the development of powerful imaging techniques, as well as the identification of cells and new molecules that regulate their activation and aggregation within vessels, is instrumental in order to better understand the mechanisms through which platelets protect or damage organisms. These analyses provide useful information for studying the pathogenesis of many disease states.

This Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, titled “New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions”, will focus on the recent advances in platelet function research, such as platelet action or the release of substances or micro-particles containing platelet miRNA, enzymes, proteins, and small molecules with roles in healthy conditions and as drivers of immunity, inflammation, angiogenesis, and tumor growth. Contributions on these and related topics are welcome, including original research and reviews. We particularly welcome submissions from postdocs, PhD students, and young researchers.

Dr. Isabella Russo
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • platelet microparticles
  • thrombosis
  • inflammation
  • oxidative stress
  • antiplatelet drug
  • signal transduction
  • immunity
  • tumor growth

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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28 pages, 9412 KiB  
Article
Deciphering Abnormal Platelet Subpopulations in COVID-19, Sepsis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus through Machine Learning and Single-Cell Transcriptomics
by Xinru Qiu, Meera G. Nair, Lukasz Jaroszewski and Adam Godzik
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 5941; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25115941 - 29 May 2024
Viewed by 1480
Abstract
This study focuses on understanding the transcriptional heterogeneity of activated platelets and its impact on diseases such as sepsis, COVID-19, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Recognizing the limited knowledge in this area, our research aims to dissect the complex transcriptional profiles of activated [...] Read more.
This study focuses on understanding the transcriptional heterogeneity of activated platelets and its impact on diseases such as sepsis, COVID-19, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Recognizing the limited knowledge in this area, our research aims to dissect the complex transcriptional profiles of activated platelets to aid in developing targeted therapies for abnormal and pathogenic platelet subtypes. We analyzed single-cell transcriptional profiles from 47,977 platelets derived from 413 samples of patients with these diseases, utilizing Deep Neural Network (DNN) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) to distinguish transcriptomic signatures predictive of fatal or survival outcomes. Our approach included source data annotations and platelet markers, along with SingleR and Seurat for comprehensive profiling. Additionally, we employed Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) for effective dimensionality reduction and visualization, aiding in the identification of various platelet subtypes and their relation to disease severity and patient outcomes. Our results highlighted distinct platelet subpopulations that correlate with disease severity, revealing that changes in platelet transcription patterns can intensify endotheliopathy, increasing the risk of coagulation in fatal cases. Moreover, these changes may impact lymphocyte function, indicating a more extensive role for platelets in inflammatory and immune responses. This study identifies crucial biomarkers of platelet heterogeneity in serious health conditions, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches targeting platelet activation, which could improve patient outcomes in diseases characterized by altered platelet function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 1948 KiB  
Article
Association between Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor Alpha Gene Polymorphisms and Platelet-Rich Plasma’s Efficiency in Treating Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy—A Prospective Cohort Study
by Alicja Jarosz, Anna Balcerzyk-Matić, Joanna Iwanicka, Tomasz Iwanicki, Tomasz Nowak, Karol Szyluk, Marcin Kalita, Sylwia Górczyńska-Kosiorz, Wojciech Kania and Paweł Niemiec
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4266; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084266 - 12 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1028
Abstract
Individual differences in the response to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can be observed among patients. The genetic background may be the cause of this variability. The current study focused on the impact of genetic variants on the effectiveness of PRP. The aim of [...] Read more.
Individual differences in the response to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can be observed among patients. The genetic background may be the cause of this variability. The current study focused on the impact of genetic variants on the effectiveness of PRP. The aim of the present study was to analyze the impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) gene on the effectiveness of treating lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) with PRP. The treatment’s efficacy was analyzed over time (2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 52 and 104 weeks after the PRP injection) on 107 patients using patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) and achievement of a minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Four SNPs of the PDGFRA gene (rs7668190, rs6554164, rs869978 and rs1316926) were genotyped using the TaqMan assay method. Patients with the AA genotypes of the rs7668190 and the rs1316926 polymorphisms, as well as carriers of the T allele of rs6554164 showed greater effectiveness of PRP therapy than carriers of other genotypes. Moreover, the studied SNPs influenced the platelets’ parameters both in whole blood and in PRP. These results showed that PDGFRA gene polymorphisms affect the effectiveness of PRP treatment. Genotyping the rs6554164 and the rs1316926 SNPs may be considered for use in individualized patient selection for PRP therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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Review

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14 pages, 2632 KiB  
Review
Role of Platelet-Activating Factor in the Pathogenesis of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
by Bo Youn Choi and Young-Min Ye
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(22), 12143; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252212143 - 12 Nov 2024
Viewed by 525
Abstract
Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a debilitating condition characterized by mast cell activation. Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is produced by various immune cells, including mast cells, basophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils, which play crucial roles in CSU pathogenesis. It induces mast cell degranulation, increases vascular [...] Read more.
Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a debilitating condition characterized by mast cell activation. Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is produced by various immune cells, including mast cells, basophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils, which play crucial roles in CSU pathogenesis. It induces mast cell degranulation, increases vascular permeability, and promotes the chemotaxis of inflammatory cells. These effects result in the release of inflammatory mediators, the development of edema, and the persistence of inflammation, which are key features of CSU. Notably, elevated PAF levels have been linked to heightened disease activity and resistance to antihistamine treatment in CSU patients. Despite these findings, the precise role of PAF in CSU pathogenesis remains unclear. Rupatadine, an antihistamine, and heat shock protein 10, a natural anti-inflammatory peptide that selectively inhibits PAF-induced mast cell degranulation, have demonstrated anti-PAF activity. Furthermore, with the molecular structure of the PAF receptor now identified, several experimental PAF receptor antagonists have been synthesized. However, there remains a significant need for the development of therapeutic options targeting PAF in CSU management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 649 KiB  
Review
Applications of Platelet Concentrates (PCs) in Regenerative Onco-Urology: A Systematic Review of Literature
by Andrea Gottardo, Gabriele Tulone, Nicola Pavan, Fabio Fulfaro, Valerio Gristina, Tancredi Didier Bazan Russo, Ornella Prestifilippo, Francesco Claps, Lorena Incorvaia, Antonio Galvano, Antonio Russo and Alchiede Simonato
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(19), 10683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms251910683 - 4 Oct 2024
Viewed by 959
Abstract
Objective: To assess the effectiveness of Platelet Concentrates (PCs) in the contest of Hemorrhagic, Actinic, and Radiation Cystitis, plus Urethral Obstruction or Stenosis. Eligibility criteria: Open article in English or Italian regarding in situ applications of PCs for the selected pathologies. [...] Read more.
Objective: To assess the effectiveness of Platelet Concentrates (PCs) in the contest of Hemorrhagic, Actinic, and Radiation Cystitis, plus Urethral Obstruction or Stenosis. Eligibility criteria: Open article in English or Italian regarding in situ applications of PCs for the selected pathologies. Information sources: MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and ELSEVIER. Risk of bias: High (and discussed). Methods for synthesis of results: Selection of relevant contents, resumed by digital tools, checked by authors and used throughout the manuscript. Included studies: 13 screened articles + 7 personal sources + 37 “extra” articles. Synthesis of results: Pre-clinical and clinical studies demonstrated substantial symptom relief, mucosal restoration, and improved growth factor levels, reducing recurrence rates and complications. However, preparation protocols and results varied among studies. Limitations of evidence: Frequent low-quality studies with mall sample size, plus heterogeneous experimental setups and nomenclature/preparations. Interpretation: PCs demonstrate promise due to their bioactive components, enhancing tissue repair and reducing inflammation with no significant adverse events. Despite positive outcomes in pre-clinical and clinical studies, variability in preparation protocols and small sample sizes, together with inconsistent results, highlight the need for high-quality research to validate PCs’ clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 947 KiB  
Review
The Effects of Caffeine on Blood Platelets and the Cardiovascular System through Adenosine Receptors
by Kinga Marcinek, Boguslawa Luzak and Marcin Rozalski
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(16), 8905; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25168905 - 15 Aug 2024
Viewed by 3953
Abstract
Caffeine is the most popular and widely consumed behaviourally active substance in the world. This review describes the influence of caffeine on the cardiovascular system, with a special focus on blood platelets. For many years, caffeine was thought to have a negative effect [...] Read more.
Caffeine is the most popular and widely consumed behaviourally active substance in the world. This review describes the influence of caffeine on the cardiovascular system, with a special focus on blood platelets. For many years, caffeine was thought to have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system mainly due to increasing blood pressure. However, more recent data suggest that habitual caffeine consumption may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension. This could be a significant finding as cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Caffeine is known to inhibit A1 adenosine receptors, through which it is believed to modulate inter alia coronary blood flow, total peripheral resistance, diuresis, and heart rate. It has been shown that coffee possesses antiplatelet activity, but depending on the dose and the term of its use, caffeine may stimulate or inhibit platelet reactivity. Also, chronic exposure to caffeine may sensitize or upregulate the adenosine receptors in platelets causing increased cAMP accumulation and anti-aggregatory effects and decrease calcium levels elicited by AR agonists. The search for new, selective, and safe AR agonists is one of the new strategies for improving antiplatelet therapy involving targeting multiple pathways of platelet activation. Therefore, this review examines the AR-dependent impact of caffeine on blood platelets in the presence of adenosine receptor agonists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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32 pages, 2465 KiB  
Review
Hallmarks for Thrombotic and Hemorrhagic Risks in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
by Zeeba Saeed, Vittorio Sirolli, Mario Bonomini, Sabina Gallina and Giulia Renda
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(16), 8705; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25168705 - 9 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1540
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue causing a significant health burden. CKD patients develop thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications, and cardiovascular diseases are associated with increased hospitalization and mortality in this population. The hemostatic alterations are multifactorial in these patients; therefore, [...] Read more.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue causing a significant health burden. CKD patients develop thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications, and cardiovascular diseases are associated with increased hospitalization and mortality in this population. The hemostatic alterations are multifactorial in these patients; therefore, the results of different studies are varying and controversial. Endothelial and platelet dysfunction, coagulation abnormalities, comorbidities, and hemoincompatibility of the dialysis membranes are major contributors of hypo- and hypercoagulability in CKD patients. Due to the tendency of CKD patients to exhibit a prothrombotic state and bleeding risk, they require personalized clinical assessment to understand the impact of antithrombotic therapy. The evidence of efficacy and safety of antiplatelet and anticoagulant treatments is limited for end-stage renal disease patients due to their exclusion from major randomized clinical trials. Moreover, designing hemocompatible dialyzer membranes could be a suitable approach to reduce platelet activation, coagulopathy, and thrombus formation. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms underlying thrombotic and hemorrhagic risk in patients with CKD, leading to cardiovascular complications in these patients, as well as the evidence and guidance for promising approaches to optimal therapeutic management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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24 pages, 1585 KiB  
Review
Platelet Storage—Problems, Improvements, and New Perspectives
by Natalia Trochanowska-Pauk, Tomasz Walski, Raghvendra Bohara, Julia Mikolas and Krystian Kubica
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(14), 7779; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25147779 - 16 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2058
Abstract
Platelet transfusions are routine procedures in clinical treatment aimed at preventing bleeding in critically ill patients, including those with cancer, undergoing surgery, or experiencing trauma. However, platelets are susceptible blood cells that require specific storage conditions. The availability of platelet concentrates is limited [...] Read more.
Platelet transfusions are routine procedures in clinical treatment aimed at preventing bleeding in critically ill patients, including those with cancer, undergoing surgery, or experiencing trauma. However, platelets are susceptible blood cells that require specific storage conditions. The availability of platelet concentrates is limited to five days due to various factors, including the risk of bacterial contamination and the occurrence of physical and functional changes known as platelet storage lesions. In this article, the problems related to platelet storage lesions are categorized into four groups depending on research areas: storage conditions, additive solutions, new testing methods for platelets (proteomic and metabolomic analysis), and extensive data modeling of platelet production (mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and artificial intelligence). This article provides extensive information on the challenges, potential improvements, and novel perspectives regarding platelet storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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Other

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20 pages, 2977 KiB  
Case Report
Heyde Syndrome Unveiled: A Case Report with Current Literature Review and Molecular Insights
by Mladen Maksić, Irfan Corović, Isidora Stanisavljević, Dušan Radojević, Tijana Veljković, Željko Todorović, Marina Jovanović, Nataša Zdravković, Bojan Stojanović, Bojana Simović Marković and Ivan Jovanović
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(20), 11041; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252011041 - 14 Oct 2024
Viewed by 844
Abstract
Heyde syndrome, marked by aortic stenosis, gastrointestinal bleeding from angiodysplasia, and acquired von Willebrand syndrome, is often underreported. Shear stress from a narrowed aortic valve degrades von Willebrand factor multimers, leading to angiodysplasia formation and von Willebrand factor deficiency. This case report aims [...] Read more.
Heyde syndrome, marked by aortic stenosis, gastrointestinal bleeding from angiodysplasia, and acquired von Willebrand syndrome, is often underreported. Shear stress from a narrowed aortic valve degrades von Willebrand factor multimers, leading to angiodysplasia formation and von Willebrand factor deficiency. This case report aims to raise clinician awareness of Heyde syndrome, its complexity, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach. We present a 75-year-old man with aortic stenosis, gastrointestinal bleeding from angiodysplasia, and acquired von Willebrand syndrome type 2A. The patient was successfully treated with argon plasma coagulation and blood transfusions. He declined further treatment for aortic stenosis but was in good overall health with improved laboratory results during follow-up. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of this syndrome, discuss current diagnostic and treatment approaches, and offer future perspectives for further research on this topic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Platelet Biology and Functions: 2nd Edition)
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