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Platelet surface P-selectin molecules increased after exposing platelet to a high shear flow
1Division of Cardiology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan. shinichi@is.icc.u-tokai.ac.jp
Summary
High shear rates activate platelets, increasing P-selectin expression via von Willebrand factor and glycoprotein Ibalpha. This shear-induced P-selectin may contribute to leukocyte recruitment at vascular injury sites.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical science
- Hematology
- Cellular biology
Background:
- P-selectin is vital for leukocyte recruitment during vascular injury.
- Platelet activation by chemical agonists causes P-selectin expression.
- P-selectin expression during physiological platelet activation under high shear rates remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate P-selectin expression on platelets under high shear conditions.
- To determine the role of von Willebrand factor (vWF) and glycoprotein (GP) Ibalpha in shear-induced P-selectin expression.
Main Methods:
- Developed a flow cytometry method using a fluorescein isothiocynate-conjugated monoclonal antibody (WGA1) specific for P-selectin.
- Quantified P-selectin molecules on the platelet surface semiquantitatively.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in platelet surface P-selectin was observed at a shear rate of 10,800 s(-1).
- Shear-induced P-selectin expression and microparticle release were dependent on the interaction between vWF and GP Ibalpha.
Conclusions:
- Shear stress can induce P-selectin expression on platelets.
- This vWF-mediated P-selectin expression may be important for leukocyte recruitment in thrombi at sites of vascular injury.