The inflammatory role of platelets in cystic fibrosis
Department of Pediatrics
Biomedical Research; Blood Platelets; Cystic Fibrosis; Humans; Inflammation
Life Sciences | Medicine and Health Sciences | Respiratory Tract Diseases
Platelets are an important, albeit generally underappreciated, component of the inflammatory cascade. Platelets are known to contribute to inflammation in atherosclerosis, stroke, and asthma. They produce a large number of proinflammatory lipid mediators and cytokines, and play a vital role in recruitment of leukocytes into inflamed tissue. We review the role of platelets in inflammation, how they assist in the recruitment of leukocytes into lung tissue in asthma, and evidence of their dysfunction in cystic fibrosis (CF). Platelet dysfunction in CF could contribute to pulmonary inflammation and tissue destruction. We hypothesize that platelet activation is important in CF lung disease and suggest research avenues that might help elucidate the role of activated platelets in CF.
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Citation: Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2006 Mar 1;173(5):483-90. Epub 2005 Dec 9. Link to article on publisher's site
O'Sullivan, Brian P. and Michelson, Alan D., "The inflammatory role of platelets in cystic fibrosis" (2006). Open Access Articles. Paper 161.