Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Experimental and Imaging Techniques for Examining Fibrin Clot Structures in Normal and Diseased States
Published on: April 1, 2015
Platelet function in diabetic retinopathy: levels of beta-thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4
J Fenández-Vigo1, M Cordido, J Fernández Sabugal
1University of Extremadura, Department of Ophthalmology, Badajoz, Spain.
Abstract:
Altered platelet function has been reported in diabetic patients. This article reports plasma levels of beta-thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4 as measures of in vivo platelet activity in diabetic and control groups. Both beta-thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4 were significantly higher in diabetics than in controls (p < 0.01). The levels observed were not significantly affected by age, sex, diabetes type or whether the diabetic had nonproliferative or proliferative retinopathy, but beta-thromboglobulin levels were significantly higher in diabetics of less than 10 years standing than in those who had suffered diabetes for over 20 years (p < 0.05).
Related Concept Videos
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Structure and Function of Platelets
Platelets are continually replenished, circulating in the bloodstream for 9-12 days before being removed by phagocytes, primarily in the spleen. A microliter of circulating blood contains between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets, with...
Formation of the Platelet Plug
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
Clot Retraction and Fibrinolysis
Diabetic Retinopathy

