Platelets possess functional TGF-beta receptors and Smad2 protein

TGF-beta1 plays a main role in tissue repair by regulating extracellular matrix production and tissue granulation. Platelets are one of the main sources of this cytokine in the circulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the TGF-beta receptors on platelets, the effect of TGF-beta1 on platelet aggregation and the underlying intracellular mechanisms. TGF-beta receptors on platelets were studied by flow cytometry and their mRNA by PCR. Platelet aggregation was assessed by turbidimetric methods and intracellular pathways by Western blot. TGF-beta receptor type II and mRNA codifying for TbetaRI and TbetaRII were found in platelets. We demonstrated that TGF-beta1 did not trigger platelet aggregation by itself but had a modulating effect on ADP-induced platelet aggregation. Either inhibition or increase in platelet aggregation, depending on the exposure time to TGF-beta1 and the ADP concentration used, were shown. We found that platelets possess Smad2 protein and that its phosphorylation state is increased after exposure to TGF-beta1. Besides, TGF-beta1 modified the pattern of ADP-induced tyrosine phosphorylation. Increased phosphorylation levels of 64-, 80- and 125-kDa proteins during short time incubation with TGF-beta1 and increased phosphorylation of 64- and 125-kDa proteins after longer incubation were observed. The modulating effect of TGF-beta1 on platelet aggregation could play a role during pathological states in which circulating TGF-beta1 levels are increased and intravascular platelet activation is present, such as myeloproliferative disorders. In vascular injury, in which platelet activation followed by granule release generates high local ADP concentrations, it could function as a physiological mechanism of platelet activation control.