Platelet-Derived Microvesicles: A Potential Therapy for Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy

Shock. 2018 Mar;49(3):243-248. doi: 10.1097/SHK.0000000000000974.

Abstract

Trauma patients are often affected by a hypocoagulable condition referred to as trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) for which few therapeutic options exist. One available treatment is fresh platelets transfusion, although it is not efficacious enough and has a number of limitations. Therefore, we reviewed the literature to propose an alternative therapy based on platelet-derived microvesicles (PMVs), which are cellular fragments surrounded by extracellular membrane and filled with cytoplasmic content. This concept is supported by a large number of studies in which the hypercoagulable role of PMVs has been demonstrated and associated with thrombosis-related conditions. The purpose of this review is to summarize what is currently known about PMVs and discuss whether a transfusion of isolated human PMVs could be used as a therapy for TIC.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Blood Coagulation Disorders* / blood
  • Blood Coagulation Disorders* / etiology
  • Blood Coagulation Disorders* / therapy
  • Blood Platelets / metabolism*
  • Cell-Derived Microparticles / metabolism
  • Cell-Derived Microparticles / transplantation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Platelet Transfusion*
  • Wounds and Injuries* / blood
  • Wounds and Injuries* / complications
  • Wounds and Injuries* / therapy