Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Procoagulant Platelet Characterization by Measuring Phosphatidylserine Exposure and Microvesicle Release from Human Purified Platelets
Published on: November 29, 2024
The Na+/H+ exchanger is phosphorylated in human platelets in response to activating agents
A A Livne1, C Sardet, J Pouyssegur
1C.N.R.S., Centre de Biochimie, Université de Nice, France.
Abstract:
alpha-Thrombin, phorbol esters (PMA) and 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG), three activators of the amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+ exchange in human platelets, rapidly increase the intracellular pH and the level of phosphorylation of the Na+/H+ exchange protein (NHE1). This stimulatory effect is suppressed by staurosporine, a potent kinase inhibitor, and increased by okadaic acid, a potent inhibitor of phosphatase 1 and 2A. The modulations of NHE1 phosphorylation by these factors correlate well with their effects on platelet pH. Thus, we conclude that in platelets (i) Na+/H+ exchange is mediated by NHE1, and (ii) platelet activating agents stimulate NHE1 via the modulation of the kinase/phosphatase equilibrium.
Related Concept Videos
Phosphorylation
During phosphorylation, protein kinases transfer the terminal phosphate group of ATP to specific amino acid side chains of substrate proteins. Serine, threonine, and tyrosine are the most commonly...
Protein Kinases and Phosphatases
Protein kinases
Many proteins in the cell are regulated by phosphorylation, the addition of a phosphate group. A family of enzymes called kinases...
Amplifying Signals via Second Messengers
Amplifying Signals via Enzymatic Cascade
Transducer Mechanism: Enzyme-Linked Receptors
Major types that are helpful drug targets include:
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...

