title: Methods for genetic modification of megakaryocytes and platelets.
abstract: During recent decades there have been major advances in the fields of thrombosis and haemostasis, in part through development of powerful molecular and genetic technologies. Nevertheless, genetic modification of megakaryocytes and generation of mutant platelets in vitro remains a highly specialized area of research. Developments are hampered by the low frequency of megakaryocytes and their progenitors, a poor efficiency of transfection and a lack of understanding with regard to the mechanism by which megakaryocytes release platelets. Current methods used in the generation of genetically modified megakaryocytes and platelets include mutant mouse models, cell line studies and use of viruses to transform primary megakaryocytes or haematopoietic precursor cells. This review summarizes the advantages, limitations and technical challenges of such methods, with a particular focus on recent successes and advances in this rapidly progressing field including the potential for use in gene therapy for treatment of patients with platelet disorders.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, Institute for Biomedical Research, Wolfson Drive, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.
authors.forename: Caroline
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Pendaries
authors.forename: Stephen P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Watson
authors.forename: Jennifer C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Spalton
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001791:Blood Platelet Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D001792:Blood Platelets / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008533:Megakaryocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D008722:Methods; D034061:Thrombopoiesis