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Updated: Jan 31, 2026

Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
Caspase 3/ROCK1 pathway mediates high glucose-induced platelet microparticles shedding
Gui Hua Wang1, Kun Ling Ma1, Yang Zhang1
1Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
Background:
Platelet microparticles (PMPs) are closely associated with diabetic macrovascular complications. This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms of high glucose-induced PMPs generation.
Methods:
Washed platelets, obtained from the plasma of healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats, were incubated with high glucose. PMPs were isolated using gradient centrifugation and counted by flow cytometry. Expression and activity of ROCK1 and caspase3 were evaluated by real-time PCR, Western blotting, and activity assay kit.
Results:
High glucose enhanced PMPs shedding in the presence of collagen. The mRNA and protein levels of ROCK1, but not ROCK2, were increased in platelets incubated with high glucose. Y-27632, an inhibitor of ROCK, blocked the increased PMPs shedding induced by high glucose. Expression and activity of caspase3 were elevated in platelets under the high glucose conditions. Z-DVED-FMK, a caspase3 inhibitor, inhibited ROCK1 activity and decreased the PMPs generation under high glucose.
Conclusion:
High glucose increased PMPs shedding via caspase3-ROCK1 signal pathway.
Insights
High glucose increases platelet microparticles (PMPs) shedding in diabetes. This occurs through the caspase3-ROCK1 signaling pathway, offering potential therapeutic targets for diabetic complications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Diabetology
Background:
- Platelet microparticles (PMPs) are linked to macrovascular issues in diabetes.
- Understanding high glucose's role in PMP generation is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms behind high glucose-induced PMP generation.
- To identify key molecular players in this process.
Main Methods:
- Rat platelets were incubated with high glucose.
- PMP shedding was measured.
- ROCK1 and caspase3 expression and activity were assessed.
Main Results:
- High glucose increased PMP shedding, ROCK1, and caspase3 levels.
- ROCK inhibition blocked PMP shedding.
- Caspase3 inhibition reduced ROCK1 activity and PMP generation.
Conclusions:
- High glucose stimulates PMP shedding via the caspase3-ROCK1 pathway.
- This pathway is a potential target for managing diabetic vascular complications.
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