Transporters in human platelets: physiologic function and impact for pharmacotherapy

Blood. 2012 Apr 12;119(15):3394-402. doi: 10.1182/blood-2011-09-336933. Epub 2012 Feb 14.

Abstract

Platelets store signaling molecules (eg, serotonin and ADP) within their granules. Transporters mediate accumulation of these molecules in platelet granules and, on platelet activation, their translocation across the plasma membrane. The balance between transporter-mediated uptake and elimination of signaling molecules and drugs in platelets determines their intracellular concentrations and effects. Several members of the 2 major transporter families, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and solute carriers (SLCs), have been identified in platelets. An example of an ABC transporter is MRP4 (ABCC4), which facilitates ADP accumulation in dense granules. MRP4 is a versatile transporter, and various additional functions have been proposed, notably lipid mediator release and a role in aspirin resistance. Several other ABC proteins have been detected in platelets with functions in glutathione and lipid homeostasis. The serotonin transporter (SERT, SLC6A4) in the platelet plasma membrane represents a well-characterized example of the SLC family. Moreover, recent experiments indicate expression of OATP2B1 (SLCO2B1), a high affinity transporter for certain statins, in platelets. Changes in transporter localization and expression can affect platelet function and drug sensitivity. This review summarizes available data on the physiologic and pharmacologic role of transporters in platelets.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / genetics
  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / metabolism
  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Blood Platelets / drug effects
  • Blood Platelets / metabolism*
  • Blood Platelets / physiology
  • Drug Therapy / methods
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
  • Humans
  • Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics
  • Membrane Transport Proteins / metabolism
  • Membrane Transport Proteins / physiology*
  • Models, Biological
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations*
  • Protein Transport / drug effects
  • Protein Transport / genetics
  • Protein Transport / physiology

Substances

  • ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters
  • Membrane Transport Proteins
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations