Connexins as regulators of platelet function: Investigation of the mechanisms of action in the control of haemostasis and thrombosis
Platelets are tiny blood cells that contribute to a blood clot following injury. Thrombosis is where over active platelets form a blood clot inside a blood vessel. Such clots can block blood supply to the heart or brain and lead to a heart attack or stroke. Professor Gibbons has discovered that platelets have molecules called connexins that form tunnels with neighbouring platelets, allowing them to communicate with each other. Disrupting the connexins between platelets can protect mice from the thrombosis. This project will study the three main specific connexins found on platelets in more detail. By understanding more about how connexin molecules work in platelets it will be possible to explore them as potential targets for the development of new medicines to stop clots forming.
Project details
| Grant amount | £261,844 |
|---|---|
| Grant type | Project Grants |
| Application type | Project Grant |
| Start Date | 04 June 2018 |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Reference | PG/17/76/33082 |
| Status | In Progress |
