Platelet-Derived Microparticles and Autoimmune Diseases

Extracellular microparticles provide a means of cell-to-cell communication and can promote information exchanges between adjacent or distant cells. Platelets are cell fragments that are derived from megakaryocytes. Their main functions are to stop bleeding, regulate inflammation, and maintain the integrity of blood vessels. When platelets are activated, they can perform related tasks by secreting platelet-derived microparticles that contain lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and even organelles. There are differences in the circulating platelet levels in many autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and Sjogren's syndrome. In this paper, the latest findings in the research field of platelet-derived microparticles are reviewed, including the potential pathogenesis of platelet-derived microparticles in various types of immune diseases, their potential as related markers, and for monitoring the progress and prognosis of disease treatment are expounded.

Automated summary

Extracellular microparticles serve as a means of cell-to-cell communication and can facilitate information exchanges between nearby or distant cells. Platelets, derived from megakaryocytes, play a crucial role in hemostasis, inflammation regulation, and vascular integrity maintenance. Upon activation, platelets can perform these functions by secreting platelet-derived microparticles containing lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and organelles. Circulating platelet levels differ in various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and Sjogren's syndrome. This review paper discusses the latest research findings in platelet-derived microparticles, including their potential role in the pathogenesis, as markers, and for monitoring disease treatment progress and prognosis.