Role of Platelets in Detection and Regulation of Infection

Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2021 Jan;41(1):70-78. doi: 10.1161/ATVBAHA.120.314645. Epub 2020 Oct 29.

Abstract

Platelets are classically known as essential mediators of hemostasis and thrombosis. However, in recent years, platelets have gained recognition for their inflammatory functions, which modulate the immune response during infectious diseases. Platelets contain various immunoreceptors that enable them to act as sentinels to recognize intravascular pathogens. Upon activation, platelets directly limit pathogen growth through the release of AMPs (antimicrobial proteins) and ensure pathogen clearance through activation of immune cells. However, aberrant platelet activation can lead to inflammation and thrombotic events.

Keywords: blood platelets; hemostasis; immunology; infection; inflammation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptive Immunity
  • Animals
  • Blood Platelets / immunology
  • Blood Platelets / metabolism*
  • Communicable Diseases / blood*
  • Communicable Diseases / immunology
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Inflammation / blood
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Ligands
  • Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern Molecules / blood*
  • Platelet Activation*
  • Pore Forming Cytotoxic Proteins / blood*
  • Receptors, Pattern Recognition / blood*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Thrombosis / blood
  • Thrombosis / immunology

Substances

  • Ligands
  • Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern Molecules
  • Pore Forming Cytotoxic Proteins
  • Receptors, Pattern Recognition