Platelets and their factors

Viac o knihe

Platelets play a crucial, life-saving role in hemostasis and blood clotting at sites of vascular injury. However, unwanted platelet activation and arterial thrombus formation are linked to myocardial infarction, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Recognizing the significant role of platelets in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, including coronary heart disease, has transformed the pharmacological treatment of cardiovascular conditions. Aspirin has become an essential antiplatelet drug and sets the standard for future developments. The quest for improved and potentially safer antiplatelet medications remains a vibrant area of research in both basic and clinical settings. Human platelets are also key models for studying inter- and intracellular signal transduction pathways. Various scientists, including biochemists, cell biologists, pharmacologists, pathologists, hematologists, and cardiologists, utilize platelets to explore processes such as adhesion, signaling through the plasma membrane, calcium homeostasis, protein kinases, and the release of vasoactive substances. The editors aim to compile chapters that summarize the current state-of-the-art information on the biochemistry, cell biology, pharmacology, and physiological and pathophysiological roles of human platelets. While this volume strives to encompass major aspects of current platelet research, some areas may be less thoroughly covered. Special thanks are ex