Mitochondria: biological roles in platelet physiology and pathology

Mitochondria are key regulators of cellular energy and redox metabolism, also playing a central role in cell signaling and death pathways. A number of processes occur within mitochondria, including redox-dependent ATP synthesis by oxidative phosphorylation and reactive oxygen species production. Mitochondrial permeability transition is a reversible process that may lead to cell death and is regulated by calcium and reactive oxygen species. Functional mitochondria are present in platelets, and evidence has demonstrated the direct involvement of these organelles in cellular ATP production, redox balance, as well as in platelet activation and apoptosis. Here, we review aspects of platelet physiology in which mitochondria are involved, as well as assess their function as new tools for studying a number of human diseases.