We have investigated beta2-glycoprotein I (beta2GPI) binding to platelet-derived microparticles (PMP) and its effect on GPIIb/IIIa. PMP were isolated from washed human platelets after stimulation with A23187, and analyzed by surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. Beta2GPI as well as activated protein C (APC) or annexin V bound to PMP-coated sensorchips, demonstrating exposure of anionic phospholipids on immobilized PMP. Beta2GPI binding was impaired by calcium and occurred in a concentration-dependent manner with apparent k(on) = 2.6 x 10(4) M(-1) s(-1) and k(off) = 4.4 x 10(-3) s(-1), corresponding to a KD value of 1.7 x 10(-7) M. When analyzed by flow cytometry, the binding of certain mAbs specific for GPIIb and/or GPIIIa was reduced in the presence of beta2GPI but not of APC or annexin V, whereas the binding of anti-GPIb or anti-P-selectin mAbs, or of soluble fibrinogen remained unchanged. These results suggest a broad but specific influence of beta2GPI on GPIIb/IIIa immunoreactivity, and indicate that beta2GPI may act as a modulator of GPIIb/IIIa-dependent functions of PMP.