P-selectin in arterial thrombosis

Z Kardiol. 2004 Nov;93(11):855-63. doi: 10.1007/s00392-004-0146-5.

Abstract

P-selectin is a transmembrane protein present in the alpha granules of platelets and the Weibel-Palade bodies of endothelial cells. Following activation, it is rapidly translocated to the cell surface. P-selectin expression in platelets has been shown to be elevated in disorders associated with arterial thrombosis such as coronary artery disease, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. P-selectin mediates rolling of platelets and leukocytes on activated endothelial cells as well as interactions of platelets with leukocytes. Platelet P-selectin interacts with P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) on leukocytes to form platelet-leukocyte aggregates. Furthermore, this interaction of P-selectin with PSGL-1 induces the upregulation of tissue factor, several cytokines in leukocytes and the production of procoagulant microparticles, thereby contributing to a prothrombotic state. P-selectin is also involved in platelet-platelet interactions, i. e. platelet aggregation which is a major factor in arterial thrombosis. P-selectin interacts with platelet sulfatides, thereby stabilizing initial platelet aggregates formed by GPIIb/IIIa-fibrinogen bridges. Inhibtion of the P-selectin-sulfatide interaction leads to a reversal of platelet aggregation. Thus, P-selectin plays a significant role in platelet aggregation and platelet- leukocyte interactions, both important mechanisms in the development of arterial thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / immunology*
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / metabolism*
  • Arteriosclerosis / immunology
  • Arteriosclerosis / metabolism
  • Biomarkers
  • Coronary Thrombosis / immunology
  • Coronary Thrombosis / metabolism
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Humans
  • P-Selectin / immunology*
  • P-Selectin / metabolism*
  • Platelet Activation / immunology*
  • Thrombosis / immunology*
  • Thrombosis / metabolism*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • P-Selectin