Role of platelets in neuroinflammation: a wide-angle perspective

Abstract

ObjectivesThis review summarizes recent developments in platelet biology relevant to neuroinflammatory disorders. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is taken as the "Poster Child" of these disorders but the implications are wide. The role of platelets in inflammation is well appreciated in the cardiovascular and cancer research communities but appears to be relatively neglected in neurological research.OrganizationAfter a brief introduction to platelets, topics covered include the matrix metalloproteinases, platelet chemokines, cytokines and growth factors, the recent finding of platelet PPAR receptors and Toll-like receptors, complement, bioactive lipids, and other agents/functions likely to be relevant in neuroinflammatory diseases. Each section cites literature linking the topic to areas of active research in MS or other disorders, including especially Alzheimer's disease.ConclusionThe final section summarizes evidence of platelet involvement in MS. The general conclusion is that platelets may be key players in MS and related disorders, and warrant more attention in neurological research.

Platelets should be at the Frontline: HIV Researchers and Care Providers Needs a lot of Sticky Notes

“…We further demonstrated that altered platelets have a remarkable ability to damage and cross the blood brain barrier [20]. This is not unexpected, since platelets are the source of multiple pro-inflammatory substances, including TNF, IL-6 and CD40, which are known for altering the BBB [18][19][20][21][22][23]. Besides their role in pathogenesis, platelets might also play a key role in the regulation of brain function.…”

“…Interrogation of an arrayed cDNA library proved that platelets contain many cytokine messenger RNAs [9][10][11]. Second, platelets have been shown to express chemokine receptors, such as MIP-1α, PDGF, and RANTES (the Macrophage Inflammatory Protein, the Platelet derived growth factor and the Regulated on Activation, Normal T Cell Expressed and Secreted) that trigger the chemotaxis of other cells to the sites of inflammation [9][10][11]18].…”

“…Notably, CD40 and platelets have been recently linked to intestinal pathological processes, which can elicit microbial transmigration and thus create a vicious cycle by inducing further inflammation [9][10][11]18]. CD40-CD40L interaction also suppresses interferon α production, which is a well-known player in the antiviral response.…”

“…Yet the mechanisms of such a dysfunction are still under investigation [18][19][20][21][22][23]. Our group started by documenting the close relationship between thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelets, and cognitive alterations [19].…”

Platelet and Erythrocyte Indexes in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I

“…A review investigating the role of thrombocytes in neuroinflammation pointed out that the thrombocytes play major roles in inflammation and immunity. 23 According to Gasparyan et al, 24 MPV value is a parameter that varies according to proinflammatory and prothrombotic conditions. Elevated MPV was indicated as an independent risk factor for myocardial infarction and CVE, while a low MPV value was shown to be associated with the activity of inflammatory rheumatologic diseases.…”