Summary
Specific inhibition of platelet function is a major target of antithrombotic drug
research. Platelet receptors are both accessible and specific but have multiple functions
often linked to a wide range of ligands. GPIb complex is best known as a major platelet
receptor for vonWillebrand factor essential for platelet adhesion under high shear
conditions found in arteries and in thrombosis. Recent animal studies have supported
inhibition of GPIb as a good candidate for anti-thrombotic drug development with several
classes of proteins showing important specific effects and the required discrimination
between roles in haemo- stasis and thrombosis is important to protect against bleeding
complications.These include antibodies, several classes of snake venom proteins, mutant
thrombin molecules and peptides affecting subunit interactions.However,due to the
nature of its receptor- ligand interactions involving large protein-protein interfaces,
the possibility of developing classic pharmaceutical inhibitors for long term (and
perhaps oral) treatment is still unclear, and additional information about structural
interactions and signalling mechanisms is essential.
Keywords
Antiplatelet agents - atherothrombosis - GP Ib - platelet glycoproteins - platelet
pharmacology