Summary
The central role of platelets in the formation of the primary haemostatic plug as
well as in the development of arterial thrombosis is well defined. In general, the
molecular events underpinning these processes are broadly similar. Whilst it has long
been known that disturbances in blood flow, changes in platelet reactivity and enhanced
coagulation reactions facilitate pathological thrombus formation, the precise details
underlying these events remain incompletely understood. Intravital microscopy studies
have highlighted the dynamic and heterogeneous nature of thrombus development and
demonstrated that there are considerable spatiotemporal differences in the activation
states of platelets within a forming thrombus. In this review we will consider the
factors regulating the activation state of platelets in a developing thrombus and
discuss how specific prothrombotic factors may influence this process, leading to
excessive thrombus propagation. We will also discuss some potentially novel therapeutic
approaches that may reduce excess thrombus development whilst minimising bleeding
risk.
Keywords
Thrombosis - atherothrombosis - antiplatelet agents