Targeting Platelet in Atherosclerosis Plaque Formation: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Hematology
• Immunology

Background:

• Platelets are increasingly recognized for roles beyond hemostasis and thrombosis.
• Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory vascular disease linked to risk factors like hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension.
• Disturbed blood flow is a key factor in atherosclerosis development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the significant roles of platelets in atherosclerotic plaque formation.
• To elucidate platelet behavior under pro-atherogenic conditions.
• To summarize molecular mechanisms of platelet involvement in vascular inflammation during atherogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on platelet interactions in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of platelet responses to disturbed flow, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia.
• Examination of molecular mechanisms involving platelet receptors and secreted factors.

Main Results:

• Platelets actively participate in atherosclerotic plaque formation.
• Platelet behaviors are significantly altered by disturbed flow, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia.
• Platelet receptors and inflammatory factor secretion are crucial in vascular inflammation during atherogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Platelets exert a significant atherogenic role.
• Further research is needed to fully understand platelet migration and function in atherogenesis.
• Targeting platelet activity may offer therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis.