The role of platelets in reproduction

Abstract

It is well known that platelets play a major role in hemostasis and thrombosis. Beyond these classic functions, the controlled activation of platelets is required in reproduction and immune response. In this review, we attempt to summarize the most important roles of thrombocytes in reproduction. The most recent studies of thrombocyte research provide remarkable insights into the physiological and clinical importance of this cellular fragment. We have summarized the key findings we have taken from the relevant literature – including our previous publications – and emphasized their significance. The plateletactivating factor and the controlled activation of platelets have important role in folliculogenesis, ovulation, placental development, implantation and embryo development. Activated platelets are involved in the pathogenesis of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and preeclampsia. Lowdose aspirin can prevent OHSS during ovulation induction, while intrauterine infusion of plateletrich plasma (PRP) increases the endometrium thickness and receptivity. Activated platelets rapidly release the contents of preformed intracellular granules and have multiple adhesion molecules and receptors on their surface. Considering the numerous homeostatic endocrine functions of platelets, it is reasonable to suppose a plateletassociated regulatory system (PARS) in reproduction. Several studies prove the importance of thrombocytes in various essential physiological processes including reproduction. Although we are far from the complete understanding of the regulatory processes, the results of PARS research and the therapeutic application of aspirin and PRP during in vitro fertilisation are promising.