title: Platelets.
abstract: Platelets, derived from megakaryocyte cytoplasm, have a critical role in normal haemostasis, and in thrombotic disorders. The development of megakaryocytes is controlled by thrombopoietin, which binds to c-mpl on the surface of platelets and megakaryocytes. Platelet membrane glycoproteins mediate binding to subendothelial tissue and aggregation into haemostatic plugs. Thrombocytopenia and disorders of platelet function cause petechiae and mucocutaneous bleeding. Drugs causing specific inhibition of platelet function are important in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73190, USA. Jim-George@OUHSC.edu
authors.forename: J N
authors.initials: JN
authors.lastname: George
mesh_terms: D001791:Blood Platelet Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001792:Blood Platelets / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019038:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIb-IX Complex / Q000502:physiology; D010980:Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins; D011247:Pregnancy; D011250:Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic / Q000503:physiopathology; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000502:physiology*; D013926:Thrombopoietin / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D019038:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIb-IX Complex; D010980:Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; C032193:glycoprotein receptor GPIb-IX; D013926:Thrombopoietin