Platelet function and lipid-lowering interventions.
Platelets play an important role in the process of atherothrombosis, and antiplatelet therapy is of proven efficacy in the prevention of vascular events in high-risk patients. In this review, we briefly consider the studies reporting that circulating atherogenic lipoproteins enhance platelet activity. We also evaluate the evidence showing that lipid-lowering interventions (including the use of statins) are associated with the normalisation of platelet activity. This beneficial effect should enhance the anti-atherogenic and anti-thrombotic potential of lipid-lowering interventions.
Milionis
H J
HJ
Department of Molecular Pathology and Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free and University College Medical School, University College, Royal Free Campus (University of London), London, UK.
Elisaf
M S
MS
Mikhailidis
D P
DP