Microparticles and Arterial Disease

Microparticles (MPs) are small (diameter <1 mu m) fragments that seem likely to represent some form of physiology and/or pathophysiology of the originating cell, be it endothelial, platelet, or leukocyte. Increased numbers of MPs are found in various disease states, including cardiovascular disease, and a considerable weight of literature suggests a value in dissecting the various aspects of cell biology. A role in coagulation has been proposed because there is evidence that some MPs expose tissue factor. This article reviews the definitions, mechanisms of production, and links with pathophysiology of MPs in arterial disease, and thus whether or not they can contribute to improved patient care.