Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Platelet Adhesion and Aggregation Under Flow using Microfluidic Flow Cells
Published on: October 27, 2009
Platelet aggregation-induced by caco-2 cells: regulation by matrix metalloproteinase-2 and adenosine diphosphate
Carlos Medina1, Paul Jurasz, Maria Jose Santos-Martinez
1Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology and Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases, University of Texas, Houston, Texas, USA.
Abstract:
Formation of tumor cell-platelet aggregates facilitates hematogenous metastases. However, molecular mechanisms implicated in tumor cell-induced platelet aggregation (TCIPA) in colon cancer are unclear. To investigate mechanisms of TCIPA induced by colon adenocarcinoma cells in vitro, human Caco-2 cells were used to study their interactions with platelets using aggregometry, zymography, phase-contrast microscopy, and flow cytometry. Caco-2-induced platelet aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner. This aggregation resulted in the release of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, as measured by zymography. In addition, flow cytometry showed a significant up-regulation of activated GpIIb/IIIa, total GpIIb/IIIa, GpIb, and P-selectin receptors on platelets. Inhibition of MMP-2 by phenantroline and degradation of ADP by APT102, respectively, resulted in inhibition of TCIPA. Furthermore, both phenantroline and APT102 significantly down-regulated the surface abundance of platelet receptors. Caco-2 cells aggregate platelets, at least in part, via releasing MMP-2 and ADP. Modulation of MMP-2 and ADP actions could have therapeutic value in colonic cancer.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
A...
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces
Anchoring junctions mechanically attach a cell to the...
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

