Figure 2.
Schematic overview of the various interactions between platelet and endothelial surface molecules. Platelets interact with activated ECs via the following main mechanisms: (1) Platelet rolling via interaction of platelet GPIb-IX-V with endothelial-released VWF with a supporting role for the P-selectin/PSGL-1 axis. (2) Firm platelet adhesion to the endothelium via interaction of platelet αIIbβ3 with endothelial αvβ3 (via VWF, fibrinogen, fibronectin) and ICAM-1 (via fibrinogen). Alternatively, platelet αIIbβ3 can also interact with the endothelial GPIb-IX-V (via VWF). (3) A stimulatory role for thrombin and the thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1)/CD36 axis in platelet activation. More detailed information is provided in the text.