Tetherin: an important platelet surface protein in cardiovascular disease?

Regulation of platelet P2Y12 receptor function by tetherin

One of the main contributors to coronary heart disease is thrombosis - a serious condition that can develop when a blood vessel becomes damaged and small blood cells called platelets stick to the damaged area, forming a clot inside the blood vessel. If a clot prevents blood from reaching the heart or brain, a heart attack or stroke may occur. Keeping platelets switched off in an inactive state could be one way to prevent dangerous clot formation. Dr Stuart Mundell and his co-workers based at the University of Bristol will research the behaviour of tiny blood cells called platelets in the circulatory system. Although platelets are essential to plugging a site of vessel injury to prevent bleeding, they are also attracted to injured blood vessels and can further worsen disease progression by forming a clot inside a blood vessel. The researchers are particularly interested in how the latter may arise so that it can be prevented. They will focus on a protein present on the surface of platelets called tetherin that may switch on other platelets. Understanding this mechanism will improve our knowledge of platelet control in the body and how it may be manipulated to develop new heart treatments.