Platelets in Inflammation and Atherogenesis

Abstract

Platelets contribute to processes beyond thrombus formation and may play a so far underestimated role as an immune cell in various circumstances. This review outlines immune functions of platelets in host defense, but also how they may contribute to mechanisms of infectious diseases. A particular emphasis is placed on the interaction of platelets with other immune cells. Furthermore, this article outlines the features of atherosclerosis as an inflammatory vascular disease highlighting the role of platelet crosstalk with cellular and soluble factors involved in atheroprogression. Understanding, how platelets influence these processes of vascular remodeling will shed light on their role for tissue homeostasis beyond intravascular thrombosis. Finally, translational implications of platelet-mediated inflammation in atherosclerosis are discussed.

Oleocanthal-rich extra virgin olive oil demonstrates acute anti-platelet effects in healthy men in a randomized trial

“…Platelets are the first responders of vascular injury during the early stages of endothelial disruption, after plaque rupture, and the final manifestation of disease; all the while, promoting the inflammatory processes that progress atherosclerotic disease (Nording, Seizer, & Langer, 2015; Rondina, Weyrich, & Zimmerman, 2013). Low-dose aspirin regimens and other anti-platelet strategies have been employed for both the primary and secondary prevention of acute events of occlusive arterial disease (Patrono & Baigent, 2014).…”

Mean platelet volume-to-lymphocyte ratio: a novel marker of poor short- and long-term prognosis in patients with diabetes mellitus and acute myocardial infarction

“…The role of platelets has been implicated in the formation and progression of atherosclerosis (Nording, Seizer, & Langer, 2015). Moreover, platelets take the center stage in acute coronary syndromes (ACS) when they form a thrombus upon the ruptured atherosclerotic plaque.…”

The Inflammatory Role of Platelets: Translational Insights from Experimental Studies of Autoimmune Disorders

“…However, it has been shown that platelet activation is not just linked to beneficial effects in hemostasis. Dysregulation of the coagulation cascade can lead to an aberrant activation and, thus, aggregation of platelets that is mostly associated with cardiovascular pathogenesis (reviewed in detail elsewhere [6,7,8,9]). In addition to their well-understood and indispensable hemostatic role, platelets are receiving more and more interest as immune and inflammatory effector cells [10].…”