The existence of platelet ‘hyperreactivity’ as a trigger of acute vascular events has been postulated clinically for decades. However, the molecular nature of an intrinsically enhanced platelet function remained unknown. Recently,a possible explanation was provided in that several genetically determined variants of platelet glycoprotein receptors can be responsible for an increased thrombogenicity and thereby accelerate acute occlusive complications of arterial disease. Distinct polymorphisms within the genes of platelet membrane glycoprotein receptors can alter their antigenicity, regulate, at least in part, their expression levels on the platelet surface,and modify their functional properties with regard to ligand binding and adhesion activity. This review will focus on 2 essential platelet receptors, the integrins aIIbß3 and a2ß1, their polymorphisms, and their potential clinical impact of genetically determined receptor variants on cardiovascular disease. Moreover, the genotype-to-phenotype relation of relevant platelet receptor variants will be discussed, and an attempt is made to assess the interdependency of phenotype to disease.

This content is only available via PDF.
2006
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.