Platelets and Megakaryocytes in Vascular Disease

SummaryPlatelets are involved in both atherosclerosis and its complications including coronary artery thrombosis. They are derived from their precursor, the mega-karyocyte (MK), a unique cell in mammalians as it can double its DNA content without intervening mitoses. There is growing evidence that changes in the megakaryocyte - platelet - haemostasis axis precede acute thrombotic events, therefore suggesting a preexisting prethrombotic state prior to thrombosis. In this context, interest has focused on changes in megakaryocyte DNA content and its relationship to platelet reactivity. An increase in MK ploidy may…