Abstract
It is now apparent that platelet function is more diverse than originally thought, shifting the view of platelets from blood cells involved in hemostasis and wound healing to major contributors to numerous regulatory processes across different tissues. Given their intriguing ability to store, produce and release distinct subsets of bioactive molecules, including intercellular signaling molecules and neurotransmitters, platelets may play an important role in orchestrating healthy brain function. Conversely, a number of neurodegenerative conditions have recently been associated with platelet dysfunction, further highlighting the tissue-independent role of these cells. In this review we summarize the requirements for platelet-neural cell communication with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases, and discuss the therapeutic potential of healthy platelets and the proteins which they release to counteract these conditions.
Highlights
Platelets are small anucleate blood cells that have been gaining recognition as important mediators of several regulatory processes
In the following review we briefly discuss the prerequisites of intercellular communication between platelets and cells from the central nervous system and summarize the research that demonstrates the involvement of impaired platelet function in several neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and prion diseases (Figure 1)
As summarized in this review, data connecting platelets and the factors they secrete to neurodegeneration have accumulated over recent years
Summary
Platelets are small anucleate blood cells that have been gaining recognition as important mediators of several regulatory processes. In the following review we briefly discuss the prerequisites of intercellular communication between platelets and cells from the central nervous system and summarize the research that demonstrates the involvement of impaired platelet function in several neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and prion diseases (Figure 1).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
