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Published on: January 31, 2018
The role of platelet microvesicles in intercellular communication
1a Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research, Department of Medicine , Thomas Jefferson University , Philadelphia , PA , USA.
Platelet microvesicles (PMVs) are key intercellular communicators, influencing various blood and vessel cells. This review explores their diverse signaling mechanisms and roles in cellular communication.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Hematology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Microvesicles, initially termed 'platelet dust,' have gained significant research interest.
- Platelet microvesicles (PMVs) are recognized as crucial mediators of intercellular communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the communicative properties of platelet microvesicles (PMVs).
- To highlight the expanding role of PMVs in cell-to-cell signaling.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on recent publications regarding PMVs.
- Analysis of studies detailing PMV interactions with various cell types.
Main Results:
- PMVs exert physiological effects on hematological and vascular cells, including monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, T-cells, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells.
- PMVs mediate communication through receptor signaling, surface molecule transfer, and intracellular content delivery (e.g., miRNA).
- Evidence suggests multi-directional sharing of cellular contents between cell types via PMVs.
Conclusions:
- Platelet microvesicles are versatile signaling agents with broad physiological impact.
- Understanding PMV communication is vital for comprehending complex cellular interactions in hematological and vascular systems.
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