Mechanisms of platelet receptor regulation and disintegration (A07)

• Subject Area: Hematology, Oncology ; Cardiology, Angiology ; Cell Biology
• Term: from 2018 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 374031971

We have shown that αIIbβ3 together with its associated tetraspanin, CD9, can be irreversibly removed from circulating platelets. The process involves mechanical forces after the ligated integrin is anchored, clustered at the platelet ‘rear edge’ and segregated within a long protrusion or tether. We found clear indications that this flow-dependent deposition of αIIbβ3/CD9-enriched tethers (termed PITTs) contributes to thrombo-inflammation. Next, the detailed molecular basis and pathophysiological significance of PITT formation will be our focus as well as the ‘disintegration’/deposition of other platelet membrane receptors, such as β1-integrins and GPVI in vitro and in vivo.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 240: Platelets – Molecular, cellular and systemic functions in health and disease
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Bernhard Nieswandt; Professor Dr. Markus Sauer