The Nonhemostatic Immune Functions of Platelets

Platelets are megakaryocyte-derived cellular fragments, which lack a nucleus and are the smallest circulating cells and are classically known to have a major role in supporting hemostasis. Apart from this well established role, it is now becoming evident that platelets are also capable of conveying other important functions, such as during infection and inflammation. This paper will outline these nonhemostatic functions in two major sections termed “Platelets versus pathogens” and “Platelet-target cell communication”.

Source: Seminars in Hematology - April 5, 2016 Category: Hematology Authors: Rick Kapur, John W. Semple Tags: April 2016 Suppl 1 ICIS Source Type: research