Platelets play an important role in TNF-induced microvascular endothelial cell pathology

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) is known to be an important mediator in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases. Vascular endothelial cells represent a major target of TNF effects. Platelet sequestration has been found in brain microvessels during experimental cerebral malaria and lung in experimental pulmonary fibrosis, implying that it may participate in TNF-dependent microvascular pathology. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of platelet-endothelial interaction, using co-cultures between platelets and TNF-activated mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs). Adhesion and fusion of platelets to MVECs was evidenced by electron microscopy, dye transfer, and flow cytometry. It was induced by TNF and interferon-gamma and depended on LFA-1 expressed on the platelet surface and ICAM-1 expressed on MVECs. The adhesion and fusion also led to the transfer of platelet markers on the MVEC surface, rendering these more adherent for leukocytes, and to an enhanced MVEC sensitivity to TNF-induced injury. These results suggest that platelets can participate in TNF-induced microvascular pathology.