Combining human platelet proteomes and transcriptomes: possibilities and challenges

Area of Science:

• Hematology and Molecular Biology
• Platelet biology and transcriptomics
• Proteomics and genomics

Background:

• Anucleate human platelets possess a wide array of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and other RNA transcripts.
• Quantitative similarities in mRNA between megakaryocytes and platelets suggest a common origin and random redistribution during proplatelet formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the classified platelet transcriptome with the identified platelet proteome.
• To discuss challenges and possibilities for achieving a complete, genome-wide platelet transcriptome and proteome.
• To explore applications in understanding intra- and inter-subject platelet differences and aiding genetic diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Classification of the platelet transcriptome (17.6k transcripts).
• Identification of the platelet proteome (5.2k proteins).
• Comparative analysis of transcriptome and proteome data.

Main Results:

• The platelet proteome shows under-representation of nuclear proteins (unlike other organellar proteins).
• Membrane receptors/channels with low transcript levels, transcription/translation proteins, and uncharacterized proteins are also under-represented.
• Significant technical, normalization, and database-dependent challenges exist in generating comprehensive platelet molecular profiles.

Conclusions:

• A complete, genome-wide reference platelet transcriptome and proteome are crucial for further research.
• Such reference data will aid in elucidating platelet variations in health and disease.
• Potential applications include advancing genetic diagnostics and understanding platelet function.