Beyond Clotting: A Role of Platelets in CNS Repair?

Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 2016 · DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00511 · Published: January 20, 2016

Cardiovascular Science Neurology Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

Platelets, known for their role in blood clotting, also possess inflammatory, angiogenic, and tissue repair properties. They store and secrete bioactive molecules that target other cells. Platelets influence CNS inflammation and may regulate regenerative processes by interacting with CNS stem/progenitor cells. Platelets react to injury and secrete bioactive molecules that influence neural stem cells (NSCs) and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) function, potentially modulating CNS repair.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Platelets accumulate in the subventricular zone (SVZ) vasculature upon demyelination, which is associated with enhanced survival of SVZ-resident neural stem cells (NSCs).
2
Platelet lysate (PL) protects proliferating NSCs from apoptosis.
3
Platelet-derived microparticles (PMP) increase cell proliferation, neurogenesis, and angiogenesis at the infarct boundary zone after stroke, leading to improvements in behavioral outcomes.

Research Summary

Platelets are not restricted to haemostasis; they regulate inflammation, angiogenesis, and tissue repair. Neuroinflammation is relevant for CNS repair as it contributes to debris clearance and controls CNS-resident stem/progenitor cells function, suggesting a potential role for platelets. Platelets react to CNS injury, accumulate in the adult stem cell niche, and release bioactive molecules that regulate immune cell activity and modulate NSC and OPC responses to injury.

Practical Implications

Targeted Drug Delivery

Genetically manipulated platelets or manufactured platelet-like particles could be used to deliver specific molecules to targeted areas within the CNS, such as sites of tissue damage or inflammation.

Therapeutic Strategies for CNS Repair

Understanding the role of platelets in neuroinflammation and CNS repair could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease.

Modulation of Stem Cell Activity

Platelet-derived molecules can be harnessed to modulate the activity of neural stem cells and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, promoting neurogenesis and remyelination.

Study Limitations

1
The mechanisms mediating platelet accumulation in the SVZ vasculature are not fully understood.
2
The exact molecules in platelets that promote NSC survival remain to be identified.
3
Neuroregeneration in animal models with platelet deficiencies needs further investigation.

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