Figure 1.
Schematic representation of direct and indirect mechanisms of platelet RNA transfer to nucleated cells. (A) Platelets can transfer part of their content to a recipient cell through direct contact with the membrane system of the target cell, or they can be internalized by the recipient cell. (B-C) Platelets can indirectly transfer their content by releasing PMPs or P-Exos. PMPs affect cellular responses through activation of cell surface receptors, horizontal transfer of RNA in and/or on PMPs through transient interaction with cell membranes, or internalization of PMPs and release of their content directly inside the recipient cell.