engleski

Platelets – cells with many functions

Platelets are the second most abundant type of blood cells. The range of their functions is wide, but they are best known for their role in haemostasis. Through delicate mechanisms of activation, adhesion and aggregation, platelets successfully repair endothelial injuries, thus stopping bleeding. There are mechanisms in place which regulate activation and inhibition of platelets depending on the stimuli received from their surroundings. When these mechanisms are impaired and out of balance, there is a high chance of haemostatic events evolving into thrombotic ones. Thrombosis can lead to a plethora of disease conditions, some of which are the leading causes of death in the world, and the need for their treatment is, therefore, of great significance. This paper will discuss the various complex roles of platelets which prove them to be a crucial cell in haemostatic and non-haemostatic events. Platelets are found at the interface of inflammatory diseases and tumour formation, and their specific roles in these will be discussed in detail. Furthermore, while they have a protective role in immunity, some viruses are able to spread their infection by using platelets as accomplices. Additionally, this paper will also show the potential platelets hold as targets in treating several diseases and conditions. Finally, all the pathways which allow platelets to become activated and serve in haemostasis, also allow for their contribution in development of thrombosis.

Platelets ; haemostasis ; thrombosis ; immunity ; inflammation ; tumour ; antiplatelet therapies

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