Review: the Multiple Roles of Monocytic Microparticles

Monocytic microparticles (mMP) are microparticles derived from human monocytes either under in vivo or in vitro conditions. The size of mMP is between 0.1 and 1.0 μm. Apart from the size range, mMPs are also identified based on phosphatidylserine and CD14 expression on their surface, though this is not always the case. Monocytic MP are critical players in inflammation, endothelial cell function, and blood coagulation. They exhibit dual function by either helping the progression of such conditions or limiting it, depending on certain factors. Furthermore, the numbers of mMP are elevated in some autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders. However, it is unknown whether mMP play an active role in these diseases or are simply biomarkers. The mechanism of mMP modulation is yet to be identified. In this review, we highlight the mechanism of mMP formation and the roles that they play in inflammation, blood coagulation, and different disease settings.