Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026

Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
Microparticles: Bridging the Gap between Autoimmunity and Thrombosis
Elena Niccolai1, Giacomo Emmi1, Danilo Squatrito1
1Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
Abstract:
Microparticles (MPs) are irregularly shaped small vesicles of heterogeneous size released from the plasma membrane in a tightly controlled process, after different stimuli. MPs have been associated with proinflammatory effects and also with autoimmune processes, being a source of autoantigenic nuclear material, which can form immune complexes. In addition, recent reports have linked a large number of autoimmune disorders to an increased risk of thrombosis, and MPs seem to promote the potential for thrombotic events. A growing mass of evidence supports the idea that MPs could contribute to the generation of an inflammation-induced hypercoagulability state, having a relevant role in the pathogenesis of the thrombotic phenomena associated to autoimmune disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and systemic vasculitis. In this review, we focus on the procoagulant properties of circulating MPs and analyze their contribution to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
Insights
Microparticles (MPs), small vesicles released from cells, are linked to inflammation and autoimmune diseases. This review explores how MPs promote blood clotting in autoimmune conditions, contributing to thrombotic events.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Microparticles (MPs) are cell-derived vesicles implicated in inflammation and autoimmunity.
- MPs can act as autoantigen sources, forming immune complexes.
- Autoimmune diseases are increasingly associated with thrombotic risks, with MPs potentially playing a role.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the procoagulant properties of circulating microparticles.
- To analyze the contribution of microparticles to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on microparticle procoagulant activity.
- Analysis of studies linking microparticles to autoimmune disease pathogenesis and thrombosis.
Main Results:
- Microparticles exhibit procoagulant properties.
- Evidence suggests MPs contribute to inflammation-induced hypercoagulability.
- MPs are involved in the pathogenesis of thrombotic phenomena in autoimmune diseases like SLE, APS, and vasculitis.
Conclusions:
- Circulating microparticles possess significant procoagulant potential.
- Microparticles play a crucial role in the development of thrombosis associated with autoimmune disorders.
More Related Videos
11:18Real-time Imaging of Heterotypic Platelet-neutrophil Interactions on the Activated Endothelium During Vascular Inflammation and Thrombus Formation in Live Mice
Published on: April 2, 2013
09:19In Vitro Microfluidic Disease Model to Study Whole Blood-Endothelial Interactions and Blood Clot Dynamics in Real-Time
Published on: May 24, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Autoimmune Disorders
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune...
Clot Retraction and Fibrinolysis
Antiplatelet Drugs: Prostaglandin Synthesis, P2Y12 and Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors
Prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, exemplified by the widely known aspirin, wield their power by irreversibly acetylating...
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
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...