Effect of Prostanoids on Human Platelet Function: An Overview

Prostanoids are bioactive lipid mediators and take part in many physiological and pathophysiological processes in practically every organ, tissue and cell, including the vascular, renal, gastrointestinal and reproductive systems. In this review, we focus on their influence on platelets, which are key elements in thrombosis and hemostasis. The function of platelets is influenced by mediators in the blood and the vascular wall. Activated platelets aggregate and release bioactive substances, thereby activating further neighbored platelets, which finally can lead to the formation of thrombi. Prostanoids regulate the function of blood platelets by both activating or inhibiting and so are involved in hemostasis. Each prostanoid has a unique activity profile and, thus, a specific profile of action. This article reviews the effects of the following prostanoids: prostaglandin-D-2 (PGD(2)), prostaglandin-E-1, -E-2 and E-3 (PGE(1), PGE(2), PGE(3)), prostaglandin F-2 alpha (PGF(2 alpha)), prostacyclin (PGI(2)) and thromboxane-A(2) (TXA(2)) on platelet activation and aggregation via their respective receptors.