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Fibrin and D-dimer bind to monomeric GPVI
Marie-Blanche Onselaer1, Alexander T Hardy1, Clare Wilson2
1Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Fibrin activates platelets via glycoprotein VI (GPVI). D-dimer binding to GPVI mediates platelet spreading, but soluble D-dimer inhibits aggregation, suggesting targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Platelet activation is crucial for hemostasis and thrombosis.
- Fibrin and collagen are key activators of platelets.
- Glycoprotein VI (GPVI) is an immunoglobulin receptor involved in platelet activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm GPVI as the primary receptor for fibrin-mediated platelet activation.
- To elucidate the specific binding interactions between fibrin fragments and GPVI.
- To explore the potential for developing selective anti-thrombotic agents.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of platelet function in GPVI-deficient patients.
- Characterization of fibrin fragment binding to GPVI using proteolytic fragments.
- Surface plasmon resonance to determine binding kinetics and affinity.
- Assessment of platelet aggregation and spreading assays.
Main Results:
- Platelet spreading on fibrin is dependent on GPVI.
- Fibrin D-dimer binds to GPVI and induces platelet spreading via Src and Syk kinases.
- Soluble D-dimer inhibits fibrin- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation.
- Fibrin binds to monomeric GPVI, distinct from collagen's binding to dimeric GPVI.
Conclusions:
- GPVI is the major signaling receptor for fibrin in human platelets.
- Fibrin interacts with a unique configuration of GPVI.
- Selective blockade of fibrin-GPVI interaction may yield safer anti-thrombotic drugs.
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