Review articlePossible roles of platelet-derived microparticles in atherosclerosis

- Definition and physiology of platelet-derived microparticles.
- PMPs influence atherosclerosis through adhesion.
- PMPs influence atherosclerosis through coagulation.
- PMPs influence atherosclerosis through inflammation.
- PMPs influence atherosclerosis through lipids metabolism.

Platelets and platelet-derived microparticles (PMPs) play important roles in cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis. Continued research has revealed that PMPs have numerous functions in atherosclerosis, not only in thrombosis formation, but also by induction of inflammation. PMPs also induce formation of foam cells. Recent evidence strongly indicates a significant role of PMPs in atherosclerosis. Here, current research on the function of PMPs in atherosclerosis is reviewed.