Thromb Haemost 2005; 94(03): 488-92
DOI: 10.1160/TH05-03-0201
Review Article
Schattauer GmbH

The potential role of platelet microparticles in atherosclerosis

Kiat T. Tan
1   Haemostasis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology Unit, University Department of Medicine, City Hospital, Birmingham, England, UK
,
Gregory Y. H. Lip
1   Haemostasis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology Unit, University Department of Medicine, City Hospital, Birmingham, England, UK
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 03 March 2005

Accepted after major revision: 29 June 2005

Publication Date:
07 December 2017 (online)

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Summary

The release of microvesicles (‘platelet microparticles’, PMPs) by activated platelets has been shown to be an integral part of the thrombotic process. PMPs are believed to mediate many biological processes as they possess various platelet membrane proteins and bioactive lipids. Of note, there is a growing body of evidence that PMPs are involved in all stages in the pathobiology of atherosclerosis. In addition to their role in thrombosis, PMPs may also have a pro-inflammatory effect, which promotes the development of atherosclerosis. Also, bioactive lipids in PMPs have been shown to have important effects on angiogenesis. This review summarises the various studies on the possible role of PMPs in the progression of atherosclerosis.