P-selectin in arterial thrombosis

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.