cardiovascular & haematological disorders-drug targets 99...

Cardiovascular & Haematological Disorders-Drug Targets, 2008, 8, 99-117 99

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Beyond Hemostasis: The Role of Platelets in Inflammation, Malignancy and Infection

Archibald McNicol1,2

and Sara J. Israels3,4,*

1Departments of Oral Biology,

2Pharmacology & Therapeutics,

3Pediatrics & Child Health and

4the Manitoba Institute of

Cell Biology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Abstract: Platelets play a complex role in hemostasis and thrombosis. The expression of multiple membrane receptors,

both constitutive and activation-dependent, mediates platelet adhesion and aggregation at sites of vascular lesion. Platelet

activation leads to exocytosis of granular constituents, release of newly synthesized mediators, and discharge of mem-

brane-bound transcellular signaling molecules. Many of the same mechanisms that play a role in hemostasis and thrombo-

sis facilitate platelet participation in other physiological or pathological processes including inflammation, malignancy

and the immune response. Platelet receptors such as GPIb/IX/V, P-selectin, P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1, CD40 and

the IIbß3 integrin, crucial to hemostasis, have been implicated in the progression of such inflammatory conditions as

atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, in the progression and metastatic spread of malig-

nancies, and in the immune response to bacterial challenge. The release of platelet granular contents, including adhesive

proteins, growth factors and chemokines/cytokines, that serve to facilitate hemostasis and wound repair, also function in

acute and chronic inflammatory disease and in tumor cell activation and growth. Platelets contribute to host defence as

they recognise bacteria, recruit traditional immune cells to the site of infection and secrete bactericidal mediators. The

primary focus of this review is the “non-haemostatic” functions of platelets in physiological and pathological states.

Key Words: Platelets, inflammation, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunity.

INTRODUCTION

Platelets are the smallest cells in circulating blood, have a

biconvex disc structure with an equatorial diameter of 2-3

m, and are anucleate. They are derived from progenitor

megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. Following their normal

life-span of 8-10 days they are removed from the circulation

during passage through the spleen. The role of platelets in

hemostasis was recognised very early [1]; their role in

thrombosis sometime later [2]. The consequences of platelet

dysfunction, and the potential of the platelet as a therapeutic

target, have been realized and exploited [3].

In invertebrates the functions of host defence and hemo-

stasis are shared by a single cell type. The best-characterized

examples of this are the nucleated amebocytes of the horse-

shoe crab--these aggregate and release their granule contents

in response to such stimuli as exposure to foreign surfaces or

bacterial endotoxin [4]. Non-mammalian vertebrate throm-

bocytes and mammalian platelets have retained non-hemo-

static roles in host defence and inflammation. During the last

decade, advances in functional analyses, knock-out models,

microscopy and characterization of the platelet proteome

have dramatically expanded our understanding of the role of

platelets in a variety of patho-physiological states, including

inflammatory disorders, tumor progression and infection.

PLATELETS IN HEMOSTASIS AND THROMBOSIS

The dynamics of blood flow dictate that circulating plate-

lets are found primarily along the vessel wall, well posi-

*Address correspondence to this author at the Manitoba Institute of Cell

Biology, Rm. ON2021A, 675 McDermot Ave. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada,

R3E 0V9; Tel: (204) 787-4141; Fax: (204) 786-0195;

E-mail: [email protected]

tioned for rapid response at sites of endothelial lesions. The

platelet response to vessel wall injury with exposure of sub-

endothelial collagen is characterized by the phases of adhe-

sion, amplification and stabilization. This response is medi-

ated by a variety of cell surface receptors, some of which are

constitutively present in an active conformation, some of

which require structural rearrangement to gain functional

integrity, and others that translocate to the platelet surface

following platelet activation [5].

The platelet glycoprotein (GP) Ib/IX/V complex acts as

an initial adhesive receptor at the endothelial lesion by bind-

ing to collagen-associated von Willebrand Factor (vWF).

Under low shear conditions, collagen binds to platelets via

the 2ß1 integrin (GPIa/IIa); GPVI and CD36 also bind to

collagen. Interestingly, both GPIb/IX/V and CD36 are plate-

let receptors for thrombospondin-1, an alternative to vWF in

mediating platelet adhesion under defined conditions. Sev-

eral other platelet surface integrins function as adhesive re-

ceptors, notably IIbß3 (immobilized fibrinogen), 5ß1 (fi-

bronectin), Vß3 (vitronectin) and 6ß1 (laminin) [5].

Following adhesion, a number of soluble mediators en-

gage specific receptors that result in platelet activation and

amplification of the initial response as additional platelets are

attracted to the site. Thrombin, a product of the coagulation

cascade, is a powerful platelet agonist, mediated by the pro-

tease-activated receptors (PAR) 1 and 4, and by GPIb/ IX/V.

Activated platelets release ADP and thromboxane (Tx) A2,

both of which promote positive feedback stimuli via P2Y1

and P2Y12, and via TP and TPß receptors, respectively. In

addition, platelets express receptors for epinephrine, platelet

activating factor (PAF), serotonin, vasopressin and immuno-

100 Cardiovascular & Haematological Disorders-Drug Targets, 2008, Vol. 8, No. 2 McNicol and Israels

globulin G (IgG), each contributing to, and enhancing, plate-

let activation [5].

Additional platelets are recruited to the site of injury

through two specific processes: First the release, by exocyto-

sis from platelet dense granules, of serotonin and of a non-

metabolic pool of ADP- the latter, in particular, is an impor-

tant secondary mediator of platelet activation [6]. Second the

synthesis and release of TxA2 a pro-aggregatory mediator

critical to the full haemostatic function of the platelet [5].

TxA2 is generated by the sequential actions of phospholipase

A2, which liberates arachidonic acid from membrane phos-

pholipids, cyclooxygenase-1, which converts arachidonic

acid to prostaglandin endoperoxides (PGG2/PGH2), then

thromboxane synthetase for the final synthesis of TxA2. At-

tenuation of either of these amplification pathways inhibits

platelet function and significantly prolongs bleeding in

vivo. Therapeutic ADP receptor antagonists, such as clopi-

dogrel, and the cyclooxygenase inhibitor aspirin are effective

anti-thrombotic agents.

Additional platelets recruited by ADP- or TxA2-mediated

mechanisms combine with the fragile layer of adherent plate-

lets at the site of injury to form a consolidated hemostatic

plug, or aggregate. This is facilitated by an activation-

mediated conformational change in the IIbß3 integrin, lead-

ing to the expression of its adhesive protein binding domain.

Fibrinogen is the major physiological ligand for this domain-

a bivalent molecule, fibrinogen binds to IIbß3 molecules on

adjacent platelets, establishing firm cross-linking to form a

stable plug [5].

In addition to the release of dense granule constituents,

two other exocytotic processes occur during platelet activa-

tion: the release of alpha granules and of lysosomal granules.

Alpha granules contain a large number of proteins of diverse

function, including adhesive proteins, chemokines, cytoki-

nes, coagulation factors and protease inhibitors (Table 1;

note that this table provides the definitions for all alpha

granule protein abbreviations that appear in the text) [7,8].

Lysosomal granules contain a variety of acid proteases, acid

glycosidases, acid phosphatases and aryl sulfatases [5].

During the process of exocytosis, granular membranes fuse

with the plasma membrane, resulting in the translocation of

granular membrane proteins onto the platelet surface. In this

way, increased numbers of constitutively-expressed proteins,

and novel proteins, appear on the platelet surface. Proteins

up-regulated on the platelet surface in this manner include

the IIbß3 integrin, P-selectin (CD62P), CD63, and the

CD40 ligand (CD40L; CD154) [5].

The phospholipid component of platelet plasma mem-

branes is significantly altered following activation. The in-

crease in expression of phosphatidylserine on the external

leaflet of the plasma membrane provides a larger surface

area for the assembly of coagulation factor complexes and

generation of thrombin. Two populations of small membrane

vesicles, microparticles and exosomes, are released from

activated platelets [9]. Microparticles have a similar phos-

phatidylserine-enriched composition to that of the plasma

membrane of activated platelets and serve to significantly

increase the surface area available for thrombin generation.

Thrombin activates additional platelets and cleaves fibrino-

gen to fibrin; polymerized fibrin stabilizes the platelet plug.

Exosomes are smaller membrane vesicles released from acti-

vated platelets following fusion of multivesicular bodies and

alpha granules with the plasma membrane [9]. Although

exosomes do not have procoagulant function, they do ex-

press CD63 and prion protein, and have been implicated in

the inter-cellular transfer of information.

PLATELETS AND INFLAMMATION

Atherosclerosis

The first suggestion that platelets have a role in inflam-

mation came, not surprisingly, from a pair of observations

related to atherosclerosis [10,11]: that atherosclerosis was an

inflammatory lesion, and that platelets were not merely pas-

sive constituents trapped in the atherosclerotic plaque. The

etiology of atherosclerosis is highly complex [12,13] and a

detailed description is beyond the scope of this review.

Briefly, increased levels of circulating low density lipoprotein

(LDL) diffuse through endothelial cell junctions into the sub-

endothelial matrix. The trapped LDL undergoes a variety of

structural modifications, including lipid oxidation, resulting

in the formation, and trapping, of minimally oxidized LDL.

The accumulation of minimally oxidized LDL triggers the

activation of the overlying endothelial cells. This activation

is characterized by a loss of vascular integrity, cytokine pro-

duction, and the expression and shedding of leukocyte adhe-

sive molecules [14], leading to the recruitment and binding

of monocytes and lymphocytes. These leukocytes “roll” along

the endothelium and pass through endothelial cell junctions

in a classic inflammatory response. The intensity of the re-

sponse is regulated by multiple factors, including genetic fac-

tors, elevated levels of free radicals generated by smoking,

hypertension or diabetes mellitus, elevated levels of homo-

cysteine, sex hormones and infections (e.g. herpes virus,

Chlamydophila pneumoniae). Sub-endothelial monocytes

proliferate and differentiate into macrophages that engulf

highly oxidized LDL to form foam cells - accumulation of

these cells appear as fatty streaks; they release extracellular

lipids to form a necrotic core. Under the influence of cytoki-

nes and growth factors a mature atherosclerotic fibrous

plaque is formed as the necrotic core enlarges, becomes cal-

cified and is infiltrated by smooth muscle cells [12,13].

Although it has been long appreciated that platelets are

incorporated into the thrombus that forms at the site of ma-

ture plaque, their role in the early stages of atherosclerosis

has been recognised more recently [15; Fig. (1)]. The charac-

terization of the platelet releasate has identified a large num-

ber of proteins with significant pro-inflammatory properties,

including PF4, interleukin (IL)-1ß and RANTES [8]. Studies

using a variety of murine knockout models established that

quiescent platelets adhere to, and roll on, stimulated endothe-

lial cells and demonstrated that there was a delay in the pro-

gression of the disease when certain adhesive proteins were

absent [16].

Beyond Hemostasis Cardiovascular & Haematological Disorders-Drug Targets, 2008, Vol. 8, No. 2 101

The process underlying the adhesion of quiescent plate-

lets to activated endothelial cells has been the subject of con-

siderable study. In vitro studies using activated human um-

bilical cord endothelial cells (HUVECs) demonstrated that

antibodies to either vWF or IIbß3 attenuate platelet adhe-

sion, supporting the role of these proteins in the process [17].

Furthermore, blocking antibodies to the primary platelet

vWF receptor GPIb/IX/V inhibited atherosclerotic plaque

formation in an apoE-/- murine model, establishing vWF as a

mediator of platelet adhesion to dysfunctional (i.e. where

endothelial cell-dependent vasodilation is impaired [14]), and

to activated endothelial cells [16,18].

P-Selectin

P-selectin has been implicated as a factor in the platelet-

related development of atherosclerosis. P-selectin is expressed

only on the surface of activated platelets and, similarly, is ex-

pressed following activation of endothelial cells. Intravital

microscopy studies in mice have demonstrated that quiescent

platelets initially bind loosely to, and then roll on, endothe-

lial cells; these processes are mediated by the expression of

P-selectin on endothelial cells, but not on the platelets

[16,17,19]. P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL-1; CD15)

and GPIb/IX/V have both been implicated as P-selectin

counter-receptors on the platelet surface. Both PSGL-1 and

GPIb/IX/V are constitutively expressed on the surface of

quiescent platelets and probably function in tandem to medi-

ate the initial interaction of platelets with endothelial cell P-

selectin [16,17,19]. Regardless of the counter-receptor(s)

involved, the P-selectin-mediated adhesion is fragile and

reversible (Fig. (1b)).

During the adhesion process, activation of platelets initi-

ates a number of events with important pro-inflammatory

implications. Activated platelets express several integrins in

their “open” conformation, of which IIbß3 is the most im-

portant [16,17,19]. The IIbß3 binds adhesive proteins such

as fibrinogen, vWF and fibronectin which tether the platelets

to ICAM-1 and Vß2 on activated endothelial cells, thereby

consolidating platelet adhesion (Fig. (1c)). Studies in an

apoE/ IIb double-deficient murine model showed signifi-

Table 1. Platelet Alpha Granule Constituents

Adhesive Proteins Chemokines Other

Fibrinogen chain

Fibrinogen chain

Fibrinogen chain

Fibronectin

Thrombospondin 1

Vitronectin

Von Willebrand Factor (vWF)

Connective Tissue-Activating Peptide (CTAPIII; CXCL7)

Epithelial Neutrophil Activating Peptide (ENA-78; CXCL5)

GRO- (CXCL1)

I-309 (CCL1)

Interleukin-8 (IL-8; CXCL8)

Macrophage Inflammatory Protein 1 (MIP-1 ; CCL3)

Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1; CCL2)

Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-3 (MCP-3; CCL7)

Neutrophil-Activating Peptide-2 (NAP-2; CXCL7)

Platelet Basic Protein (CXCL7)

Platelet Factor (PF4; CXCL4)

Platelet Factor 4 variant 1 (PF4alt; CXCL4L1)

Regulated upon Activation, Normal T-cell Expressed, and Se-

creted (RANTES; CCL5)

Stromal Cell-Derived Factor (SDF-1; CXCL12)

Thymus and Activation-Regulated Chemokine (TARC; CCL17)

-Thromboglobulin ( -TG; CXCL7)

Cytokines Growth Factors

Interleukin-1 (IL-1 )

High Mobility Group Box

Chromosomal Protein-1

(HMGB1)

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)

Epidermal growth factor (EGF)

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)

Insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2)

Platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD-ECGF)

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)

Transforming growth factor (TGF- )

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A)

Vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C)

Albumin

Amyloid -A4 protein

Angiopoietin-1

Angiostatin

Clusterin

Endostatin

Factor V

Factor XI

Factor XIII

High-molecular weight kininogen (HMWK)

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2)

Metalloproteinase inhibitor-1

Multimerin

Osteonectin

Plasminogen

Plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1)

Protein C inhibitor

Protein S

Secretory granule proteoglycan core protein

(SGPCP)

Thrombocidin-1 (TC-1)

Thrombocidin-2 (TC-2)

Thymosin -4

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-4)

von Willebrand antigen-II

2 macroglobulin

2-antiplasmin

-actinin 1

-actinin 2

-actinin 4

Protein and peptide contents of alpha granules that are released upon platelet activation, in response to a variety of stimuli. From Harrison and Cramer [7] and Coppinger et al. [8].


Fig. (1). Role of platelets in the early development of atherosclerosis.

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(Fig. 1. Contd….)

Fig. (1 a). The progression of platelet involvement during the early stages of atherosclerosis. Quiescent, discoid platelets bind to the dysfunc-

tional endothelium (broken line) and become activated, losing their discoid appearance and extending filopodia. Monocytes bind to, then roll

on, the activated platelets and finally migrate through the endothelial layer. Platelet-derived transcellular mediators stimulate changes in the

endothelial cells facilitating the direct binding and rolling of monocytes on the luminal surface. This progression is seen in more detail in fig-

ures 1b-1f.

Fig. (1b). Platelet receptors (GPIb/IX/V, IIb 3, PSGL-1), endothelial cell receptors/counter receptors (ICAM-1, V 3, P-selectin), and

adhesive proteins (vWF) mediate the binding of quiescent platelets to dysfunctional endothelial cells.

Fig. (1c). The platelet is activated, the IIb 3 integrin is in an open, fibrinogen binding conformation, and the platelets express P-selectin and

CD40L.

Fig. (1d). Monocytes, via PSGL-1 and CD40, bind to the adherent, activated platelet

Fig. (1e). Monocytes roll along the adherent platelets to an endothelial cell junction. Concomitantly, platelets release microparticles and se-

crete -granule contents. Microparticles serve to deliver multiple transcellular mediators to the endothelial cell including RANTES.

Fig. (1f). RANTES binds to its serpentine receptor (CCR1/CCR5) leading to an upregulation of the luminal expression of monocyte-binding

adhesive receptors.

cantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque development [17,20].

As outlined above, activated platelets also express P-selectin

on their surface, which serves multiple pro-inflammatory roles

[16,17,19,21,22]. First, P-selectin mediates the adhesion and

rolling of PSGL-1-expressing immune cells (monocytes,

neutrophils, lymphocytes) on the adherent platelets (Fig.

(1d)). Second, P-selectin-mediated signaling leads to the

clustering of IIbß3 on the platelet surface, enhancing the

anchoring capacity of the integrin and facilitating firm plate-

let adhesion to the endothelium (Fig. (1c,d)). Third, the en-

gagement of P-selectin appears critical in the exocytosis of

platelet alpha granule-derived chemokines (Fig. (1e); Table

1) some of which have been shown to participate in the de-

velopment of the atherosclerotic lesion. Fourth, P-selectin

facilitates the delivery of platelet-derived chemokines, nota-

bly RANTES (see below), to the endothelium (Fig. (1e)).

CD40/CD40 Ligand

Platelet adhesion/activation is associated with the upregu-

lation of CD40L, a member of the TNF family, which is

also found on activated T lymphocytes, monocytes, endothe-

lial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells [16,19,23,24,25].

The CD40L receptor is CD40, an integral membrane protein

expressed on a variety of cells including B cells, monocytes,

endothelial cells, fibroblasts, vascular smooth muscle cells

and platelets. A proportion of CD40L is shed from activated

platelets in a soluble form (sCD40L); it has been estimated

that 95% of circulating sCD40L is platelet-derived [24]. The

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plasma level of sCD40L is regarded as predictive of recur-

rent cardiovascular disorders, such as myocardial infarction

and stroke, but not of the development of atherosclerosis

[25].

In atherosclerosis, membrane-bound CD40L, but not

sCD40L, interacts with endothelial cells and induces the ex-

pression of leukocyte adhesive molecules (e.g. VCAM,

ICAM, E - selectin), pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. IL-6,

IL-8, MCP-1) and matrix metalloproteinases [24,25]. In ad-

dition monocytes and macrophages are activated to release a

range of pro-inflammatory mediators. However, the associa-

tion between platelet-derived CD40L and the early stages of

atherosclerosis is less well defined than, for example, the

role played by T lymphocyte-derived CD40L. In contrast,

both platelet membrane-bound CD40L and platelet-derived

sCD40L play important roles in the later stages of athero-

thrombosis where they induce tissue factor expression on

endothelial cells and monocytes, and bind directly to IIbß3

to stabilize thrombi [23,24,25]. The engagement of platelet

CD40 by either sCD40L or CD40L-expressing T-cells leads

to the activation of platelets and the exocytosis of RANTES

which, as outlined below, appears to be an important pro-

inflammatory mediator [26].

Studies using either CD40L-deficient mice or anti-CD40L

blocking antibodies showed both decreased overall athero-

sclerotic plaque development and a more stable, collagen-

rich, macrophage- and T lymphocyte-poor plaque structure

[23]. Thus the CD40/CD40L system is implicated in athero-

sclerosis, and in a number of other inflammatory disorders

(e.g. arthritis, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease).

Chemokines/Cytokines

Interestingly, platelets also express receptors for a variety

of chemokines, notably for MCP-1 (CCR2), IL-8 (CXCR2),

fractalkine (CX3CR1), RANTES (CCR1/CCR5), SDF-1

(CXCR4), and TARC and MDC (both CCR4) [19]. Platelet

activation has been reported to occur in response to SDF-1

and fractalkine [27]; murine platelets lacking the fractalkine

receptor CX3CR1 display a decreased atherosclerotic pheno-

type [28]. In contrast, the engagement of CXCR4 or CCR4

by their respective chemokine, although not leading to plate-

let activation per se, significantly enhances the effect of low

levels of platelet agonists, such as thrombin or ADP [19].

Thus, these chemokines may play a role in the post-adhesion

platelet activation early in the development of the atheroscle-

rotic lesion. These platelet receptors may also serve to accu-

mulate chemokines at the lesion, as has been postulated for

CCR2. CCR2 is a low affinity MCP-1 receptor on platelets;

the engagement of CCR2 by MCP-1, however, has no effect

on platelet function. Platelets transport MCP-1 to the lesion

where it dissociates from CCR2 and accumulates at that site

[22].

RANTES is a major contributing factor to the vascular

inflammation associated with atherosclerosis. It is stored in

platelet alpha granules and released following activation as a

component of microparticles [19]. The microparticles pro-

vide an efficient, localised transfer mechanism, depositing

the RANTES onto the activated endothelium (Fig. (1f)). The

binding of RANTES to the endothelium enhances monocyte

recruitment and activates monocytic integrins, consolidating

their attachment and rolling at the atherosclerotic lesion [29].

PF4 was the first member of the chemokine family iden-

tified in platelets. It is released from activated platelets in a

P-selectin-dependent manner and, depending on the presence

of individual co-stimuli, plays multiple pro-inflammatory

roles [19]. In the presence of tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-

), platelet-derived PF4 stimulates both neutrophil exocyto-

sis and firm adhesion to the endothelium. It also facilitates

RANTES-induced adhesion of monocytes to the endothe-

lium. The presence of PF4 and RANTES together is associ-

ated with the progression of atherosclerosis, and conversely

antagonism of RANTES receptors significantly decreases the

size of atherosclerotic lesions. The effects of PF4 are not

limited to direct interactions with leukocytes. PF4 has been

shown to inhibit the degradation of the LDL receptor, thereby

limiting lipoprotein removal with associated pro-atherogenic

consequences [17]. PF4 also enhances the uptake of oxidized

LDL by macrophages-it is found associated with macrophages

in early, and with foam cells in late, atherosclerotic lesions

[17].

Platelets store and, upon activation, release a number of

other chemokines including MIP-1 , MCP-3, TARC, GRO-

and ENA-78 (Table 1; Fig. (1e)). In addition, ß-TG is a

precursor of CTAPIII, PBP and NAP-2. These molecules are

likely to have an impact on the recruitment and activation of

leukocytes during the progression of atherosclerosis [19,22].

Several cytokines are secreted by activated platelets

[17,19], of which IL-1 has been the most widely studied.

Platelets store IL-1ß in its precursor pro-IL-1ß form [17,19].

Platelet activation leads to the rapid release of active IL-1ß in

both a soluble form and in association with microparticles

[19] (Fig. (1e)). Although both forms enhance endothelial

cell adhesiveness for neutrophils, microparticle-associated

IL-1ß is significantly more effective, possibly because of the

presence of additional pro-inflammatory factors, such as P-

selectin, on microparticles [30]. The conversion of pro-IL-1ß

to IL-1ß, and subsequent release of IL-1ß from platelets, oc-

curs in a ß3 integrin-mediated process and, as demonstrated in

vitro, continues for several hours [30]. This suggests that

platelets play a significant role in the chronic inflammatory

response.

Growth Factors

Several other atherogenic mediators are released by acti-

vated platelets that may have a role in the chronic stages of

atherosclerosis, although in most cases the evidence is cur-

rently circumstantial. PDGF and TGF-ß, both secreted from

-granules, lead to smooth muscle cell proliferation and bio-

synthesis respectively [31]. Consequently, both are likely to

be involved during the stages of plaque development where

smooth muscle cells proliferate and infiltrate the plaque [17].

The contribution of platelets to inflammation associated

with other disorders is less well delineated, however platelets

have been implicated in the etiology of conditions such as


inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis,

systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis and migraine [32].

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Several lines of evidence support a role for platelets in

ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, the two most common

forms of IBD [24]. The platelets of individuals with both

conditions express significantly elevated levels of activation

markers, such as P-selectin and CD40L, in combination with

elevated levels of plasma ß-TG, PF4, and sCD40L, consis-

tent with platelet activation [24]. Interestingly, the P-selectin

expression on platelets has been reported to be found primar-

ily in mesenteric rather than in peripheral venous blood.

Histopathological examination of rectal mucosal capillaries

from patients with IBD showed the presence of mi-

crothrombi, although their presence is unrelated to the sever-

ity of inflammation. Platelets readily adhere to human intes-

tinal microvascular endothelial cells (HIMECs) incubated in

vitro with IL-1ß. The accompanying expression of platelet

CD40L serves to facilitate platelet binding to the endothelial

cells. CD40L stimulates endothelial cells to upregulate sur-

face levels of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, two primary leukocyte

receptors, and to release the neutrophil chemoattractant IL-8

[33]. Platelet-derived sCD40L also stimulates intestinal cells

to increase adhesive receptor expression and chemokine re-

lease. The platelets of individuals with IBD also release

RANTES, which in in vitro studies, has been shown to be

highly bound to HIMECs [24].

Based on these studies, Danese and colleagues have sug-

gested a sequence of events whereby platelets adhere to in-

testinal microvascular endothelial cells activated by IBD.

The platelets release sCD40L, RANTES and potentially other

chemokines, which are localized to the endothelium. This

results in the increased expression of adhesive receptors,

leukocyte adhesion and migration into the interstitium where

inflammation occurs [24].

Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is well-documented that platelets accumulate in the

synovial fluid of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, al-

though the significance is not well understood. The platelets

from individuals with rheumatoid arthritis express increased

levels of IIbß3 and form increased numbers of complexes

with monocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes. However,

their platelets do not express more P-selectin, nor does their

plasma have elevated levels of TGF-ß [34]. Studies using an

animal model of arthritis have shown that platelets adhere to,

and roll on, arthritic endothelium [35]. Thus it is unclear

whether platelets contribute to the disease progression or

respond to the pathological setting of rheumatoid arthritis.

For example, platelets are responsive to both platelet activat-

ing factor and IgG, both of which are elevated in rheumatoid

arthritis.

Psoriasis

It has been recognized for 30 years that psoriasis is a risk

factor for thrombosis. The circulating blood of patients with

psoriasis has significantly more platelet microaggregates and

elevated ß-TG levels, when compared to blood of control

individuals [36]. The platelets of individuals with psoriasis

are hypersensitive to soluble agonists such as ADP, collagen

and arachidonic acid due, at least partly, to enhanced cy-

clooxygenase activity [37]. It was suggested that platelet hy-

peractivity led to the release of mitogenic and inflammatory

mediators that contributed to the psoriasis [36]. More recent

studies in a murine model demonstrated that activated plate-

lets could roll on skin venules in a P-selectin- and IIbß3 -

mediated manner [38]. Furthermore platelet P-selectin ex-

pression is increased in individuals with psoriasis [38]. Al-

though many platelet-associated inflammatory mediators are

implicated in the progression of psoriasis (e.g. CD40,

CD40L, fractalkine) the role, if any, that platelets play in the

development of the disease remains conjecture.

Migraines

For several decades platelets have been implicated as one

of the principle etiological factors underlying migraine head-

ache [3 9,40]. This was based largely on the hypothesis that

migraine was considered to be a disorder of vascular tone,

that serotonin was the major contributing factor, and that the

platelets of these patients abnormally handled serotonin [40].

There is now evidence that migraine can be considered as an

inflammatory disorder specifically within cephalic tissue. It

is proposed that the release of inflammatory mediators acti-

vates peripheral nocioceptors associated with sensory fibres

innervating the meninges [41]. A variety of contributing me-

diators have been proposed, including protons, free radicals,

complement, prostaglandins, kinins and cytokines [41], in-

cluding several platelet-derived cytokines (e.g. IL-1, ß-TG).

Although there is no conclusive evidence linking the

exocytosis of cytokines from platelets with the onset or pro-

gression of migraines, it is interesting to note that platelet

hyperactivity has long been recognized as a hallmark of this

condition; indeed there is a small, but significant, increase in

the incidence of stroke associated with migraines. Thus it is

plausible that enhanced platelet release may provide inflam-

matory mediators that synergize with other mediators of mi-

graine. Furthermore, in common with other inflammatory

conditions, there is now evidence that patients experiencing

migraine without aura, in contrast to either those with aura or

controls, have significantly increased formation of platelet-

leukocyte complexes [42]. The identity of the receptors in-

volved has not been determined.

Inflammatory Pulmonary Disease

Finally, a role for platelets in various pulmonary condi-

tions has been postulated. The platelets of individuals with

asthma have higher than control levels of expressed P-

selectin [43], and platelet-derived P-selectin functions to re-

cruit leukocytes to their lungs [44]. Studies in human ex vivo

asthma models demonstrated that antibodies to P-selectin

attenuate platelet-leukocyte complex formation and subse-

quent pulmonary recruitment [45].

O’Sullivan and Michelson have summarized reports of an

intrinsic platelet dysfunction underpinning cystic fibrosis


[46]. The platelets from these individuals appear hyperactive

with increased production of both TxA2 and sCD40L. The

relationship between platelets and the progression of cystic

fibrosis remains to be fully addressed [46].

A role for platelet-derived P-selectin in the development

of inflammatory lung disease has been recently postulated

[47]. In a murine model of acute lung injury, P-selectin-

mediated platelet-neutrophil interactions were critical to dis-

ease progression, and pulmonary inflammation was attenu-

ated by blocking P-selectin. Furthermore antagonism of the

platelet TxA2 receptor significantly inhibited platelet-neutro-

phil interactions and subsequent neutrophil adhesion to, and

activation of, endothelial cells. Thus, it appears the platelet

cyclooxygenase pathway modulates the progression of in-

flammatory lung disease.

Therapeutic Implications for Inflammation

Anti-platelet drugs (i.e. those agents which affect platelet

function) play a well-defined role in the primary and secon-

dary prevention of arterial thrombotic disorders. Inhibition of

cyclooxygenase-1 by aspirin with resultant decreased TxA2

generation, and antagonism of the ADP receptor by clopi-

dogrel or ticlopidine attenuate the amplification pathways of

platelet activation. In addition, the blockade of the active site

of IIbß3 by humanized antibodies such as abciximab sig-

nificantly reduces thrombotic complications associated with

percutaneous coronary intervention. The development of

safe, effective, orally active IIbß3 antagonists as anti-

thrombotics has proved to be more challenging [48].

The multiple effects of platelets in inflammatory diseases

suggest that anti-platelet therapy may produce clinical bene-

fit in these disorders. Aspirin is well accepted as an anti-

inflammatory agent, however its anti-platelet actions are

observed at doses (81-325 mg/day), significantly lower than

those required for traditional anti-inflammatory effects (1500

mg/day). Some of the beneficial effects of aspirin in cardio-

vascular disease, including atherosclerosis, are clearly not a

result of an anti-platelet action. For example, aspirin inhibits

reactive oxygen formation, increases nitric oxide synthase and

reduces C-reactive protein levels, each of which is cardiopro-

tective but platelet-independent. Thus the complexity of the

situation in atherosclerosis makes it difficult to assign specific

benefit to the anti-platelet actions of aspirin in early stages of

atherosclerosis. In contrast, platelet inhibition is of funda-

mental importance to aspirin’s actions in athero-throm-bosis.

Few studies have addressed traditional anti-platelet drugs

in non-atherosclerotic inflammatory conditions. At present,

there is little evidence to support a specific anti-platelet action

of aspirin in inflammatory disorders.

Interestingly, a number of drugs in addition to traditional

anti-platelet agents (e.g. aspirin, ticlopidine, clopidogrel,

abciximab) have been shown to decrease the release of mi-

croparticles specifically from platelets, including: pravas-

tatin, eprosartan, nifedipine, digoxin, iloprost and vitamin K

[49]. Although microparticles have been implicated in a

number of inflammatory conditions, the specific beneficial

anti-microparticle effects of these drugs have not been ad-

dressed.

PLATELETS AND MALIGNANCY

Platelets play a significant role in the pathogenesis of

malignancy. There is now evidence for the contribution of

platelets to tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and tumor

angiogenesis, in animal models, and in a variety of tumors

types including carcinomas of breast, colon, lung, ovary and

melanoma. The association between malignancy and throm-

bosis was first recognized in 1865 by the French clinician

Armand Trousseau who made the observation that migratory

thrombophlebitis could be an indicator of occult malignancy;

he subsequently diagnosed his own fatal pancreatic carcinoma

by this sign [50,51]. Trousseau’s syndrome, the clinical

manifestation of the hypercoagulable state, seen particularly

with advanced carcinomas, is the result of a complex interac-

tion among tumor cells, inflammatory cells, endothelium and

platelets. A decade later, the German surgeon Theodor Bill-

roth described tumor thrombi within the blood vessels of

patients with cancer, and surmised that tumor emboli played

a role in the development of metastatic disease [52].

The interaction of platelets and tumor cells is bidirec-

tional, with tumor cell-expressed proteins activating plate-

lets, and activated platelets promoting tumor survival and

progression by a number of different mechanisms discussed

below. The clinical importance of understanding the details

of these interactions is to determine whether it is possible to

use targeted therapy that prevent the contribution of platelets

or their releasates without incurring significant bleeding.

Some of these potential targets are common to inflammation

and malignancy; inhibiting those targets could abrogate the

contribution of platelets in both settings.

The role of platelets in the development of experimental

pulmonary metastases was originally recognized by Gasic

and colleagues in the 1960s. Thrombocytopenic mice were

protected from development of pulmonary metastases fol-

lowing tail vein injection of tumor cells [53]; this benefit was

reversed by platelet transfusion [54]. Subsequent studies

have confirmed a role for platelets in the development of

metastases, the formation of tumor emboli and the arrest of

tumor cells at sites on the vessel wall [55].

Tumor Cell-Platelet Aggregate Formation

The formation of platelet-tumor aggregates confers a

survival advantage to malignant cells by protecting them

from immune surveillance [56,57], allowing their persistence

in the vascular compartment and enhancing metastatic poten-

tial [53,54,58,59]. Platelets facilitate the adhesion of tumor

cells to vessel wall and release growth factors that may en-

hance tumor cell growth and angiogenesis at sites of ex-

travasation (Fig. (2)).

Activation of platelets is the result of multiple mecha-

nisms available to tumor cells. Thrombin, cancer procoagu-

lant or cathepsin B, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 released


from cancer cells can all activate platelets. Tumor-generated

thrombin also has an autocrine effect on tumor cells, and

stimulates heterotypic aggregate formation. A second mecha-

nism depends on the constitutive expression of tissue factor

on the surface of some tumor cells leading to activation of

the coagulation cascade and thrombin generation on the pro-

coagulant platelet surface. The potential to activate platelets

varies among tumor cell lines, but the capacity of tumor cell

lines to induce platelet aggregates in vitro correlates with in-

creased in vivo thrombosis and metastases [55,60].

Platelet-tumor cell aggregates result from the cross-linking

of platelet integrins, primarily IIb 3, with integrins ex-

pressed on tumor cells, such as v 3 [61], by adhesive

ligands such as fibrinogen, fibronectin and vWF. In some

tumor cell lines, including breast, prostate, colon and mela-

noma, ectopic expression of megakaryocytic genes results in

the expression of functional IIb 3 [62-65]. Expression of

IIb 3 on tumor cells also may result from its transfer by

microvesicles, released from activated platelets, to the sur-

face of malignant cells [66,67]. GPIb/IX/V is involved, and

blocking of its interaction with vWF reduces platelet-tumor

cell interactions [68-70]. Participation by other receptors

( 3 1, 5 1) and adhesive proteins (laminin, vitronectin,

thrombospondin, and collagen) also has been identified [71].

Tumor cell-platelet adhesion mimics that of inflammatory

cells, with initial tethering and rolling mediated by P-selectin

Fig. (2). The role of platelets in tumor progression and metastases.

Fig. (2a). The progression of platelet binding to tumor cells (TC). Tumor cells activate platelets using a variety of mechanisms (e.g. tissue

factor (TF) and thrombin) leading to changes in membrane composition, including the expression of IIb 3 in its open conformation and P-

selectin. The binding of platelets to tumor cells to form heterotypic aggregates is mediated by integrin/adhesive protein combinations (e.g.

platelet IIb 3, tumor cell v 3, fibrinogen) and by complexes of tumor cell mucins and P-selectin. Tumor cells tether, roll and adhere in a

manner similar to leukocytes shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. (2b). Activated platelets promote survival of tumor emboli in the circulation by protecting tumor cells from clearance by natural killer

cells (NK), allowing their adhesion and extravasation at metastatic sites. Release of platelet-derived factors, stimulate tumor growth (e.g.

LPA) and modulate neoangiogenesis (e.g. VEGF and endostatin).


followed by firm adhesion to 3 integrins by fibrinogen and

vWF [72](Fig. (2a)).

P-selectin, which plays a critical role in the interaction of

platelets with inflammatory cells, is also emerging as a piv-

otal receptor in platelet-tumor cell interaction and the forma-

tion of platelet-tumor cell aggregates. The binding of P-

selectin to carcinoma mucins mediates this interaction. Al-

though some tumor cells, such as HL-60, express PSGL-1

[21], in most cases, the selectins recognize aberrantly glyco-

sylated mucins [73-75] or the GPI-linked surface mucin

CD24 [76], which carry sialylated, fucosylated and sulfated

carbohydrates [77,78]. Specific cleavage of these mucins

blocked platelet binding to the tumor cells [77]. Heparan

sulfate-like proteoglycans expressed on some tumors can

also function as P-selectin ligands [77,79], and this finding

has prompted the investigation of heparin therapy targeted at

the selectin-ligand association (see below).

Platelets and Tumor Metastases

The role of platelets in promoting experimental metasta-

ses in mouse models has been demonstrated using a variety

of techniques to produce thrombocytopenia. More recently,

NF-E2 mice with marked thrombocytopenia have been shown

to be relatively protected from pulmonary metastases follow-

ing tail vein injection of melanoma cells [80]. Fibrinogen

deficiency also is protective [80,81]. Platelets play an active

role in these models as inhibition of platelet activation or

aggregation abrogates metastatic potential. Inhibition of I-

Ib 3-mediated fibrinogen binding by monoclonal antibodies,

pharmacological inhibitors or by the genetic loss of integrin

3 decreases metastases [82,83,84]. Inhibition of platelet

activation by prostacyclin blocks tumor-induced platelet ac-

tivation and experimental metastases [85]. Genetic altera-

tions resulting in thrombin receptor PAR-4 deficiency [80]

or G protein G q deficiency [86], give rise to mice with sig-

nificant defects in agonist-induced platelet aggregation and

thrombus formation despite normal platelet counts, and pro-

tection from hematogenous metastases in comparison to

wild-type mice. Similar protection is observed in P-selectin-

deficient mice when injected with mucin-producing carci-

nomas [87].

The contribution of activated platelets to metastatic po-

tential is likely multifactorial (Fig. (2b)). The mechanisms

by which platelets contribute to metastases include: (1) The

arrest of tumor cells at sites of vascular damage by tethering

and rolling on adherent platelet and or endothelial cell ex-

pressed P-selectin, followed by integrin-mediated stable adhe-

sion [72,88]. The interaction of platelets and tumor cells at

the vessel wall bears many similarities to the interaction of

platelet/leukocyte responses to inflammation. (2) The provi-

sion of a physical barrier protects tumor cells from elimina-

tion by the immune surveillance of natural killer cells.

Common to several of the knock-out murine models de-

scribed above, was the observation that impaired platelet

function did not alter the initial localization of tumor cells in

the lungs, but did affect the survival and growth of the tumor

emboli [86,87]. In the G q -/- mice this survival advantage

was lost following depletion of NK cells using anti-asialo

GM1 antibodies [86], suggesting that activated platelets may

prevent the direct cell-cell contact required for NK cell-

mediated tumor lysis [56,57,89].

Platelets and Tumor Growth

Activated platelets also contribute directly to tumor cell

proliferation and survival at both primary and metastatic

sites, by contributing to thrombin generation, release of

soluble mediators, and the generation of microparticles and

exososmes that transfer other growth mediators to adjacent

tumor cells.

Thrombin has been demonstrated to promote tumor

growth and metastases in murine models of spontaneously

metastasizing breast cancer. Pretreatment of mice with hi-

rudin decreased tumor growth by ten-fold, and metastases

more significantly [90]. Endogenous thrombin generation

results from the expression of tissue factor on the surface of

tumor cells activating coagulation factors on the procoagu-

lant surface of activated platelets. Ectopic expression of the

thrombin receptor PAR-1 on tumor cells and its activation by

thrombin enhances tumor cell growth and metastases [71].

This cycle of tumor-induced thrombin generation by platelets

and thrombin-induced tumor cell activation and growth can be

interrupted in vitro by either direct thrombin inhibitors [71]

or PAR-1 inhibitors [91].

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive water-soluble

phospholipid that has recently been shown to have a signifi-

cant role in cancer cell proliferation, migration and metasta-

ses. LPA interacts with G - protein-coupled LPA receptors

that feed into multiple effector pathways by activating three

G proteins, Gq, Gi and G12/13. In tumor cells these pathways

enhance a variety of biological activities including cell pro-

liferation, survival, migration, invasion, and the inhibition of

differentiation [92,93]. There appear to be several sources

for the LPA found in the tumor milieu, including generation

of LPA by a tumor cell ecto-enzyme autotaxin, a lysophos-

pholipase that cleaves lysophosphatidylcholine. LPA also is

generated and released by platelets, the product of phosphol-

ipase A2 cleavage of phosphatidic acid. Activation of plate-

lets by tumor cells stimulates LPA production and release,

which then binds to tumor cell LPA receptors (Fig. (2b)).

Using a breast cancer cell line that over-expressed the LPA

receptor, tumor cells could be stimulated by the supernatant

from activated platelets, and this effect was abolished by

treatment of the supernatant with LPA degradation enzymes

[94]. In this model, platelet LPA also stimulated tumor cell

release of IL-6 and -8, enhancing osteoclast activity and bone

resorption at sites of bony metastases [94].

Platelets release growth factors, adhesive proteins and

chemokines that stimulate tumor activity directly, or recruit

inflammatory cells that release soluble mediators such as

TNF that inhibits tumor cell apoptosis [95], promoting tu-

mor cell survival. A potent source of mediators that can in-

fluence tumor cell growth is platelet microvesicles, both sur-

face-derived microparticles and exosomes, which have been

shown to increase the growth and invasive potential of lung


and breast cancer cells. The effects of isolated platelet mi-

crovesicles on tumor cells in vitro included activation of

proliferative signaling pathways, and enhanced proliferation

and survival of cells in serum-free cultures [66,67]. In-

creased numbers of circulating peripheral blood microvesi-

cles have been correlated with poorer prognosis in patients

with gastric carcinoma [96].

Tumor Angiogenesis

Platelet granules contain both pro-angiogenic and anti-

angiogenic factors (Table 2). These factors are released fol-

lowing platelet activation and secretion (Fig. (2b)); the bal-

ance appears to favour platelets providing a pro-angiogenic

stimulus in the context of malignancy [97,98]. Recent evi-

dence suggests that pro- and anti-angiogenic mediators may

be packaged in distinct subsets of alpha granules [99], and

released by specific stimulation of one proteinase-activated

receptor, (PAR-1 induces release of VEGF) versus another

(PAR-4 induces release of endostatin) [100].

Table 2. Angiogenic Factors in Platelet Alpha Granules

Pro-Angiogenic Mediators Anti-Angiogenic Mediators

VEGF-A and VEGF-C

bFGF

HGF

IGF-1 and -2

EGF

PDGF

PD-ECGF

Angiopoietin- 1

MMP-2

PF4 (CXCL4)

Thrombospondin- 1

Angiostatin

Endostatin

TGF-

PAI-1

TIMP-4

The most significant link between platelets and tumor an-

giogenesis may be VEGF. Platelets provide a large reservoir

of VEGF that is released following tumor cell-induced acti-

vation. The concentration of platelet-derived VEGF is a bet-

ter predictor of tumor progression than serum concentrations

of VEGF [101]. In vitro studies have shown that platelets

stimulate endothelial cell proliferation and tube formation

[102,103], and inhibitors of IIb 3 such as abciximab block

tumor cell-induced platelet VEGF secretion and sprouting of

endothelial cells [104]. VEGF stimulates the endothelial cell

expression of tissue factor and release of vWF, enhancing

platelet adhesion to tumor vessel wall. The abnormal tumor

vasculature and resultant turbulent flow also may contribute

to platelet adhesion, degranulation and increased release of

angiogenic factors within the tumor [105].

The release of platelet-derived microparticles under these

conditions also may play a role in angiogenesis; platelet mi-

croparticles stimulate tumor cell expression of angiogenic

factors including IL-8, VEGF and HGF and membrane met-

alloproteinases involved in degradation of extracellular ma-

trix and remodeling of the basement membrane [66].

Therapeutic Implications for Malignancies

The complex interaction of platelets with tumor cells

makes the platelet and platelet-generated effector molecules

apt targets. Despite in vitro studies showing inhibition of tu-

mor-cell -induced platelet aggregation, aspirin, ticlopidine

and prostacyclin failed to affect experimental metastases in

mouse models [54,68]. More success was seen in experimen-

tal models with agents such as the chimeric antibody abcixi-

mab and the peptide epifibatide that block integrin binding to

adhesive proteins. Integrin blockade has been shown to in-

hibit platelet-tumor cell adhesion, experimental metastases

and platelet-induced sprouting of endothelial cells [68,82,

106]. Inhibitors of thrombin generation, including coumar-

ins, heparins, and direct thrombin inhibitors such as hirudin,

also decreased experimental metastases [55,71,107].

At present, the most promising therapeutic agent is hepa-

rin. Clinical trials have demonstrated a survival advantage

for unfractionated and low molecular weight heparins over

placebo in subgroups of cancer patients without thrombosis

[108,109], and over warfarin in cancer patients with venous

thrombosis [110]. The advantage of heparin may be that its

effects on tumor growth and metastases are multiple, includ-

ing inhibition of thrombin generation, fibrin formation, tumor

cell stimulation through PAR-1 receptors, and platelet acti-

vation (Table 3). Heparin also blocks binding of tumor cell

glyscosaminoglycans to selectins on platelets and endothelial

cells, inhibiting formation of heterotypic aggregates and their

adhesion to the blood vessel wall [77,111].

Table 3. Anti-Malignant Properties of Heparin

Inhibition of thrombin and fibrin formation

Inhibition of tumor cell adhesion to platelets and endothelial cells

Interference with selectin binding to tumor cell glycosaminoglycans

Inhibition of angiogenesis

Stimulation of apoptosis

Immune system modulation

The ideal therapeutic agent(s) will be one that inhibits

platelet adhesion and release without increasing the risk of

bleeding beyond a tolerable range. We know little about the

optimal timing or duration for these agents to be effective in

preventing tumor progression and metastases, as most ex-

perimental models are not true reproductions of clinical tu-

mor progression.

PLATELETS AND IMMUNITY

The potential association of infections, both bacterial and

viral, with the development of cardiovascular disease has

long been suspected. The best characterized is infective en-

docarditis [112], although a variety of infectious agents also

have been implicated in the etiology of conditions such as

atherosclerosis [113], myocardial infarction [114] and stroke

[115]. Only recently have mechanistic relationships been


partially elucidated, and platelets have been implicated as

major contributors to the development and progression of

infection-associated cardiovascular disease. It is becoming

clear, however, that in addition to contributing to adverse out-

comes, platelets play a host-defence role against bacterial

pathogens in particular [19].

Platelets and Bacteria

The interaction between platelets and bacteria has re-

cently been extensively reviewed [116]. Bacterial species

cause platelet aggregation utilizing a variety of the mecha-

nisms; even within individual species there may be strain-

specific mechanisms of platelet activation. For example

Staphylococcus aureus, the most frequent causative pathogen

responsible for infective endocarditis [117], activates plate-

lets by differing mechanisms depending on the presence of

specific proteins on the bacterial cell wall. S. aureus can

stimulate platelets via mechanisms involving: IgG and its

associate platelet receptor Fc RIIA, fibrinogen and its recep-

tor IIbß3, vWF and its receptor GPIb/IX/V, and comple-

ment [116]. Indeed, the specific process invoked by individ-

ual strains of S. aureus likely dictates the speed of the plate-

let activation response [116]. A number of other pathogens

implicated in infective endocarditis, including species of the

Staphylococcus (S. epidermidis, S. capitis) and Streptococ-

cus (S. sanguis, S. agalactiae, S. pyogenes, S. gordonii, S.

pneumoniae, S. mitis) genii, as well as Neisseria gonnor-

rhoeae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, have been shown to

activate platelets using similar strategies to those utilized by

S. aureus [116].

The relationship between bacterial infections and coro-

nary artery disease is less clear and somewhat controversial.

Individuals with active infections are at a higher risk and

those who have received antibiotics in the previous year are

at lower risk for acute cardiovascular events [116]. Ott and

colleagues identified the presence of DNA from a number of

different bacterial species in atherosclerotic plaques [113].

Consequently, it has been suggested that coronary artery

diseases, such as atherosclerosis [113] and myocardial in-

farction [114], are not associated with any single pathogen

but rather with the cumulative effects of multiple organisms-

the concept of total pathogenic burden [113,114,116].

Helicobacter pylori, coincidentally first reported by Gi-

ulio Bizzozero [118] who also shares credit for the original

identification of platelets [2], is now accepted as the causa-

tive organism of many gastric disorders, and may also in-

crease the risk of myocardial infarction and atherosclerosis

[119]. Similarly, Chlamydophila pneumoniae (previously

known as Chlamydia pneumoniae) has been reported to in-

crease the risk of myocardial infarction, although prophylac-

tic antibiotic therapy failed to prevent acute events in a high-

risk population group [120-122].

Transient bacteremias with normal orally-derived bacte-

ria are common, not only after dental procedures (extraction,

endodontic treatment, periodontal surgery, root scaling)

[123,124] but following regular “non-invasive” procedures

such as brushing [125] (notably with the use of electronic

toothbrushes [126]), and in individuals with periodontal dis-

ease [127]. Such transient bacteremias, which involve both

anaerobes, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, and aerobes,

such as S. sanguis, would contribute significantly and regu-

larly to total pathogenic burden. P. gingivalis and S. sanguis

have both been isolated from atherosclerotic plaque [128],

although only P. gingivalis is a perio-pathogen [129]. Con-

sequently there has been considerable interest in the relation-

ship between oral disease, primarily periodontal disease, and

cardiovascular disease.

A systematic review completed in 2003 suggests an overall

moderate association between periodontal disease and athero-

thrombosis, including coronary artery disease, stroke and

peripheral vascular disease [130]. Furthermore, studies in

pigs and in mice have shown that infection with P. gingivalis

is as effective as a high cholesterol diet at inducing athero-

sclerosis [131,132]. Invasive, perio-pathogenic strains of P.

gingivalis have been shown to upregulate the expression of

adhesive receptors on [133], and the release of chemoattrac-

tants from, cultured endothelial cells [134]. This provides a

potential mechanism for the genesis of atherosclerotic le-

sions, including the adhesion of platelets to the activated

endothelial cells, as outlined above. Interestingly an invasive

strain of P. gingivalis enhances tissue factor expression and

activity, but attenuates tissue factor pathway inhibitor levels

[135], suggesting multiple targets in addition to platelets.

Individual strains of H. pylori, S. sanguis and P. gin-

givalis have been shown to activate platelets in vitro [116].

In each case, the presence of IgG and its platelet receptor

Fc RIIA and probably, vWF and its platelet receptor

GPIb/IX/V, are essential for activation to occur. Fitzgerald

and colleagues have proposed a general scheme by which

platelet activation can be stimulated by bacterial pathogens

(Fig. (3a)). This involves the initial adhesion of the bacte-

rium to the platelet - this may involve either the direct inter-

action of a bacterial wall or membrane protein (e.g. clumping

factors A and B, fibronectin binding proteins A and B, ser-

ine-rich protein, serine-aspartate repeat protein), with a plate-

let receptor (e.g. GPIb/IX/V, IIbß3) or via an intervening

plasma protein (e.g. vWF, fibrinogen). Subsequently, circu-

lating antibodies to proteins on the bacterial surface activate

the adherent platelets by engaging Fc RIIA [116]. Initial

activation includes the synthesis and release of TxA2 (most

bacteria-induced platelet aggregation is aspirin-sensitive),

and the subsequent expression and occupation of fibrinogen

binding sites on IIbß3 for full aggregation to take place. It

should be noted that a role for factors excreted by bacteria in

platelet activation cannot be excluded [116] (Fig. (3)).

Platelets and Innate Immunity

The response to infection comprises a rapid, antigen-

independent innate response and a delayed, prolonged anti-

gen-specific adaptive response. The innate response to bacte-

rial infections is multi-factorial and has been reviewed for

several specific invading organisms [136,137]. In general,

bacteria secrete and/or express ligands (e.g. gram negative

bacteria-derived LPS, gram positive-derived lipoteichoic ac-


ids, bacterial cell wall peptidoglycans) for the toll-like recep-

tor (TLR) family of membrane proteins [138,139]. To date

12 TLRs have been described in humans and have been lo-

calized primarily to phagocytic cells (e.g. monocytes,

macrophages), epithelial cells and, as discussed below, plate-

lets. Several of the TLRs, including TLR-1, TLR-2, TLR-4

and TLR-6 are expressed on the cell surface. TLR-2 forms

heterodimeric complexes with TLR-1 or TLR-6 and binds

lipoproteins and lipoteichoic acids, whereas TLR-4 recog-

nises a variety of ligands, although LPS and viral proteins

appear to be its primary agonists. In contrast, some TLRs

such as TLR-8 and TLR-9 are located intracellularly and

serve as receptors for single stranded RNA and DNA, re-

spectively [138,139]. Engagement of TLR-expressing cells

leads to cell-specific release of transcellular mediators, pri-

marily chemokines and cytokines that mediate the immune

response to invading organisms [138,139].

Interestingly platelets have been shown to express several

TLRs, including TLR-1, TLR-2, TLR-4, TLR-6, TLR-8 and

TLR-9 [140,141] with increased surface expression of TLR-2

and TLR-9 following activation [141]. The role of platelet

TLRs remains unclear. Studies in mice demonstrated that

engagement of TLR-4 by LPS stimulated an IIbß3-medi-

ated binding of platelets to fibrinogen in the absence of P-

selectin expression [142]. Furthermore LPS binding to TLR-4

caused thrombocytopenia in mice and, in the presence of

anti-platelet antibodies, was associated with decreased TNF

production [143]. Recently Semple and colleagues demon-

strated that platelet-bound LPS, presumably via TLR-4, syn-

Fig. (3). Association of platelets with bacteria

Fig. (3a). Schematic representation of the association of platelets with bacteria (Bact), based on the model proposed by Fitzgerald and col-

leagues [113]. Bacterial cell wall or membrane proteins interact directly, or via adhesive proteins (e.g. vWF), with platelet membrane pro-

teins, notably the GPIb/IX/V complex. IgG, bound to bacterial antigens engage Fc RIIa on the platelet, stimulating signaling pathways culmi-

nating in TxA2 release and full platelet activation. Activated platelets engulf the bacteria in a heterogenous aggregate.

Fig. (3b). Transmission electron micrograph of platelets and S. sanguis (B) stirred together in a platelet aggregometer, demonstrating platelet

activation and extension of filopodia (arrows) that surround the bacteria. Scale bar = 0.5 m.


ergizes with anti-platelet antibodies thereby enhancing Fc-

receptor-mediated phagocytosis [144].

The effects of LPS on IIbß3-mediated fibrinogen binding

may suggest a role for TLRs in platelet activation. The LPS-

induced release of sCD40L from platelets was attenuated by

blockade of TLR-4 but not of TLR-2 or TLR-9 [145], consis-

tent with the elevated levels of sCD40L observed in the

plasma of patients with meningococcal sepsis [146]. In con-

trast, Ward and colleagues were unable to show an effect of

ligands for TLR-2 or TLR-4 on cytosolic calcium mobilisa-

tion, P-selectin expression or aggregation, either alone or in

combination with traditional platelet agonists such as platelet

activating factor, epinephrine or ADP[147].

Anti-Bacterial Efects of Platelets

Intriguingly platelets may serve an anti-bacterial function.

It has been proposed that, as platelets rapidly accumulate at

sites of injury/infection, they may play similar “surveillance”

roles to that of traditional immune cells such as macro-

phages, mast cells and dendritic cells [148]. The upregula-

tion of CD40L on the platelets surface (in response to vascu-

lar damage, soluble agonists or bacteria) has effects on adap-

tive immunity, including accelerating dendritic cell matura-

tion, stimulating IgG production by B cells and enhancing T

cell activity [149]. Bacteria-induced platelet activation re-

sults in the secretion of granular contents, including various

chemokines that, as outlined above for inflammation, serve

to attract immune cells (monocytes, basophils, NK cells,

macrophages) to the site of infection [148]. Finally, platelets

adhering to and aggregating around bacteria may promote

bacterial clearance [148]; indeed activated platelets may in-

ternalize bacteria thereby removing them from the circula-

tion [19].

Platelet alpha granules also contain thrombocidins, mem-

bers of a family of anti-bacterial proteins that are found pri-

marily in neutrophils and play a central role in the innate

immune system [19]. Two thrombocidins have been charac-

terized, TC-1 and TC-2, which are variants of neutrophil-

activating peptide-2 (NAP-2) and connective tissue-acti-

vating peptide-III (CTAP-3) respectively. TC-1 and TC-2, but

not the parent molecules, are bactericidal for several organ-

isms including E. coli and S. aureus, and are fungicidal for

Cryptococcus neoformans [150]. Studies in rabbits have

shown thrombocidins to be important for host defence

against Streptococci-induced endocarditis [151]. Further-

more, the thymosin- 4, PBP, RANTES and PF-4 released

from activated platelets have been reported to have bacterio-

cidal effects against E. coli and S. aureus when tested in

vitro [152].

Platelets and Viruses

Associations between platelets and several viral infections

have been proposed. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) will bind to

GPVI on the platelet membrane which, it has been sug-

gested, may serve to facilitate viral transport and promote

viral survival [153]. Studies, primarily in animal models of

HBV infection, have demonstrated that platelets facilitate the

accumulation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in intrahepatic

sites of necrosis and inflammation It is unclear whether this

is the result of the interaction of platelets with HBV particles

or platelet participation in the inflammatory response as out-

lined above.

Platelets have been shown to engulf viruses, most notably

human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1); a significant

proportion of circulating HIV-1 is associated with platelets.

The adhesion of HIV-1 to platelets is mediated by two plate-

let membrane proteins, dendritic cell-specific intercellular

adhesion molecule 3-grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN), and

C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC-2) [156]. DC-SIGN

facilitates the endocytosis of HIV-1 by platelets [157],

whereas CLEC-2 is linked to Src kinase/phospholipase C 2

pathways and is unlikely to be involved in HIV-1 uptake

[156]. The importance of these platelet receptors, viral up-

take and intracellular signaling to the progression of HIV-1

disease is unknown.

Platelets and Prions

The transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE)

are a family of neurodegenerative disorders that include bo-

vine spongiform encephalopathy in cattle, scrapie in sheep,

and Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease and Gerstmann-Straussler-

Schienker syndrome in humans. Infectious forms of TSE are

due to a variant protease-resistant form (PrPres) of a normal

cellular protein, prion protein (PrP) [158]. PrP is a gly-

cophosphatidylinositol-linked membrane protein of unknown

function. However, its conversion to PrPres renders the pro-

tein highly infectious, affecting health care and agricultural

policies worldwide. PrP is present on the membrane of plate-

let alpha granules [159] and is released on exosomes following

platelet activation [160]. The presence of PrPres in platelets

has not been reported, however its sequestration, and subse-

quent exosomal release, could have significant implications

for TSE disease transmission, notably by blood transfusions

[161].

Therapeutic Implications for Infections

The therapeutic implications of manipulating interactions

between platelets and bacteria have not been widely ad-

dressed, although several antibiotics, notably penicillin, may

have anti-platelet side-effects. The increased understanding

of the role of both bacterial pathogens and platelets in the

development of atherosclerosis has led to the identification

of specific potential targets. The IgG receptor Fc RIIA is a

common mediator of platelet responses to multiple bacterial

species. Antagonism of this receptor represents a logical strat-

egy [116], particularly in keeping with the concept of total

pathogenic burden. Furthermore, Fc RIIA antagonists are

unlikely to compromise the hemostatic function of platelets,

avoiding the bleeding risks associated with traditional anti-

platelet drugs. The anti-bacterial potential of platelets could

be utilized by selectively releasing, or mimicking, thrombo-

cidins.

The role of platelet interactions with T lymphocytes in the

progression of hepatic necrosis and inflammation caused by


HBV, has raised the possibility that anti-platelet drugs may

reduce the severity of chronic liver disease in HBV infected

individuals [154] Studies are currently underway to deter-

mine the beneficial effects of aspirin and clopidogrel in

HBV-induced liver disease.

CONCLUSION

Platelets have retained many of the functions of the

primitive multi-functional hemocyte. The predominant func-

tion of platelets is considered to be hemostasis, where they

play a complex role integrated with other soluble and cellular

participants. Platelets adhere to the exposed sub-endothelial

collagen of a damaged vessel wall, are activated, up-regulate

additional adhesive receptors and secrete transcellular me-

diators, contributing to the formation of a stable platelet ag-

gregate. Defective activation of platelets compromises he-

mostasis and can result in excessive clinical bleeding. In

contrast inappropriate platelet activation is associated with

arterial thrombotic conditions such as myocardial infarction

and stroke. Platelets are a primary target for the prevention of

recurrent cardiovascular thrombosis.

It is now clear that platelets have a wider repertoire of

physiological roles and therefore are implicated in more

pathological conditions than thrombosis; they are active par-

ticipants in the immune response and host-defence. In these

situations, platelets function like traditional immune cells

such as macrophages and mast cells, binding to bacteria,

secreting chemokines, and clearing invading organisms from

the circulation. Many of the underlying mechanisms used by

platelets in their immune response are identical to, or exten-

sions of, the hemostatic processes. Their contributions to

pathological lesions in inflammatory disorders, and to tumor

progression, are the result of these responses at the wrong

place and time.

The challenge for therapeutic intervention in these dis-

eases will be to identify drugs that preferentially block spe-

cific targets involved in the complex contribution of platelets

to inflammation or tumor progression, while leaving their

hemostatic function at least partially intact.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors would like to thank Dr. E. D. Israels for

helpful suggestions during the preparation of this manuscript

and E.M. McMillan-Ward for preparation of Fig. (3b). SJI is

funded by a grant from Cancer Care Manitoba and AM by a

grant from the Heat and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

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Received: 14 July, 2007 Revised: 07 November, 2007 Accepted: 12 November, 2007

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