Platelets, Protean Cells with All-Around Functions and Multifaceted Pharmacological Applications

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Immunology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Platelets are the most abundant blood cells after erythrocytes, with only a fraction needed for hemostasis.
• Beyond coagulation, platelets are increasingly recognized as critical mediators in immunity and various disease pathologies.
• Platelet dysfunction contributes to thrombotic events and other conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of platelets in physiological and pathological processes.
• To highlight platelets as therapeutic targets and innovative drug delivery systems.
• To explore the potential of platelet derivatives in regenerative medicine.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on platelet function and applications.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on platelet involvement in hemostasis, immunity, and disease.
• Analysis of emerging therapeutic strategies utilizing platelets and their derivatives.

Main Results:

• Platelets possess diverse functions extending beyond hemostasis, impacting innate and adaptive immunity.
• Platelet dysfunction is implicated in thrombosis, cancer, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Platelets and their derivatives (e.g., platelet lysates, pEVs) show promise as therapeutic agents and in regenerative medicine.

Conclusions:

• Platelets exhibit a 'protean' nature, with roles far exceeding their traditional hemostatic function.
• Targeting platelets offers new therapeutic avenues for various pathologies, including atherothrombotic diseases.
• Platelet-based therapies and regenerative applications represent a rapidly evolving field with significant potential.