Proteomic-Based Platelet Activation-Associated Protein SELP May Be a Novel Biomarker for Coagulation and Prognostic in Essential Thrombocythemia

Abnormal platelet activation can lead to thrombosis in essential thrombocythemia (ET) and thus impact patient prognosis. Platelet activation-associated proteins are key molecules for platelet activation. However, it is unclear which proteins are most closely associated with the disease's prognosis. To determine which platelet activation-related proteins can be employed as ET patient prognosis predictors, we used label-free quantification (LFQ) and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) technology and first determined the serum proteomic expression levels and the differential proteins of ET patients. Then, based on the IPSET (International Prognostic Score for ET), the differential protein associated with the prognostic score was found. To investigate potential processes affecting prognosis, the connection of this protein with prognostic markers, such as thrombotic history, age, white blood cell count, coagulation factors, and inflammatory factors, were further examined. The levels of platelet activation-related proteins GPIb alpha, SELP, PF4, MMP1, and FLNA were significantly higher in ET patients, according to LFQ and PRM analyses (p < 0.01). Based on regression analysis of the IPSET prognostic score, it is suggested that the SELP level was positively correlated with the prognostic score and prognostic risk factor analysis (p < 0.05). Further regression analysis of SELP with coagulation factors showed that antithrombin (AT-III) was negatively correlated with SELP levels (p < 0.05). Further regression analysis of the inflammatory factors with AT-III and SELP revealed that IL-10, IL-12P70, and IL-31 were negatively correlated with AT-III and SELP (p < 0.01). Platelet activation pathway-related proteins are expressed more frequently in ET patients, and serum SELP may be a prognostic marker for these individuals by encouraging leukocyte increase and inflammatory factor expression and causing aberrant coagulation.

Automated summary

Abnormal platelet activation in essential thrombocythemia (ET) leads to thrombosis and affects patient prognosis. Platelet activation-associated proteins, including GPIb alpha, SELP, PF4, MMP1, and FLNA, were found to be significantly elevated in ET patients. Regression analysis showed a positive correlation between SELP levels and the IPSET prognostic score, and a negative correlation between SELP levels and antithrombin (AT-III) levels. Furthermore, inflammatory factors IL-10, IL-12P70, and IL-31 were negatively correlated with both AT-III and SELP levels. These findings suggest that platelet activation-related proteins and serum SELP may serve as prognostic markers in ET patients by promoting leukocyte increase, inflammatory factor expression, and aberrant coagulation.