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Adhesion molecules influencing atherosclerosis
1Diabetes Research Institute, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany. tschoepe@dfi.uni-duesseldorf.ole
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Diabetes accelerates heart disease through blood clot formation. Increased P-selectin on platelets in diabetic patients suggests early platelet-leukocyte interactions contribute to atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Endocrinology
- Hematology
Background:
- Diabetes leads to heart problems primarily through accelerated blood clot formation (atherothrombosis) on narrowed arteries.
- Atherosclerosis is a progressive cycle involving cell interactions, starting with monocyte adhesion to activated endothelial cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of adhesion molecules, specifically P-selectin, in the early stages of diabetic cardiovascular disease.
- To investigate the link between enhanced platelet-leukocyte interactions and atherogenesis in diabetic patients.
Main Methods:
- The study discusses the mechanism of white blood cell adhesion and transmigration mediated by selectins and integrins.
- It highlights the rapid appearance of P-selectin on activated endothelial cells and platelets.
Main Results:
- P-selectin acts as a receptor for monocyte/PMN adhesion to activated endothelium.
- Diabetic patients show increased levels of circulating P-selectin positive platelets, even early in the disease.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced platelet-leukocyte interaction, indicated by elevated P-selectin, may be a key factor in the early pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in diabetes.
- This interaction is also relevant for understanding reperfusion injury and myocardial remodeling after heart attack.