Research progress on the role of platelet-derived microparticles in the development of atherosclerosis

Abstract

Platelet-derived microparticles(PMPs) are extremely small vesicles with complex structure and composition released by platelets, which contain proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs and other bioactive substances and participate in various pathophysiological processes. PMPs promote the development of atherosclerosis(AS) by participating in the processes of vascular endothelial cell injury, inflammatory reaction, lipoprotein deposition, macrophage phagocytosis and plaque instability. Anti-platelet drugs can lower down the plasma level of PMPs. Therefore, PMPs provide a new perspective for the explanation of the pathogenesis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Keywords

• platelet-derived microparticles|atherosclerosis|endothelial cells|inflammatory reaction