Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 13, 2025

Megakaryocyte Differentiation and Platelet Formation from Human Cord Blood-derived CD34+ Cells
Published on: December 27, 2017
Molecular and functional characteristics of megakaryocytes and platelets in aging
Orlando Esparza1, Kelly Higa2, Pavel Davizon-Castillo1,3
1Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant.
Purpose Of Review:
Advances in medical care and preventive measures have contributed to increasing life expectancy. Therefore, it is critical to expand our understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological adaptations of the hematological system in aging. We highlight and review the findings from recent investigations aimed at understanding the effects of aging on megakaryocytes and platelets.
Recent Findings:
Biochemical and transcriptomic studies of megakaryocytes and platelets from older humans and mice have advanced our understanding of the molecular and functional characteristics of megakaryocytes and platelets during aging. These studies have led to the identification of metabolic and inflammatory pathways associated with the generation of hyperreactive platelets that may significantly contribute to the high incidence of thrombosis in aging.
Summary:
By increasing our research efforts to understand and identify the characteristics of megakaryocytes and platelets in aging, we will increase our potential to develop novel therapies aimed at decreasing the incidence of aging-associated thrombosis. These efforts will also serve as a foundation to better understand the role of megakaryocytes and platelets in other age-related hematological conditions with high thrombotic risk such as clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential and myeloproliferative neoplasms.
Related Concept Videos
Structure and Function of Platelets
Platelets are continually replenished, circulating in the bloodstream for 9-12 days before being removed by phagocytes, primarily in the spleen. A microliter of circulating blood contains between 150,000 and 450,000...
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Role of Hematopoietic Growth Factors
Thrombopoietin (TPO), mainly released by the liver,...
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Metabolism
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution

