Signaling Pathways of Receptors Involved in Platelet Activation andShedding of These Receptors in Stored Platelets

Abstract

All cells encounter various signals coming from the surrounding environment and they need toreceive and respond to these signals in order to perform their functions. Cell surface receptorsare responsible for signal transduction .Platelets are blood cells which perform several functionsusing diverse receptors. Platelet concentrate is one of the most consumed blood products.However, due to the short lifespan of the platelets and platelets damage during storage, we faceshortage of platelet products. One of the damages that platelets undergo during storage is theloss of surface receptors. Since cell surface receptors are responsible for all cell functions, theloss of platelet receptors reduces the quality of platelet products. In this study, we reviewed theimportant receptors involved in platelet activation and their associated signaling pathways. Wealso looked at the platelet receptors that shed during storage and the causes of this incident.We found that GPIbα, P-selectin, CD40 and GPVI are platelet receptors that fall during plateletstorage at room temperature. Considering that GPVI and GPIbα are the most important receptorswhich involved in platelet activation, their shedding can cause decrease in platelet activationafter transfusion and decrease thrombus consistence. Shear stress and platelet contact with thecontainer wall are among the mechanisms discussed in this process, but studies in this area haveto be continued.