Platelets and lipoprotein (a): a brief overview of their role in the pathogenesis of atherothrombosis.
The relationship between lipids and the haemostatic mechanisms participating in the evolution of the atherosclerotic plaque have been undergoing extensive investigation for over a century. Circulating lipoproteins can enhance platelet activity. Among these lipid fractions, lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), a predictor of atherosclerotic disease, has been proposed as a link between lipids and haemostasis. In this review, we briefly consider lipid-platelet, and particularly Lp(a)-platelet, interactions which may be relevant to the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic disease and its complications.
Milionis
H J
HJ
Department of Molecular Pathology and Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital and School of Medicine (University of London), London, UK.
Mikhailidis
D P
DP
Winder
A F
AF