Novel molecules in calcium signaling in platelets

J Thromb Haemost. 2009 Jul:7 Suppl 1:187-90. doi: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2009.03379.x.

Abstract

A rise in the intracellular calcium (Ca2+) concentration is a major component of the signaling mechanisms regulating platelet function in thrombosis and hemostasis. Previous studies, however, failed to identify many key molecules regulating Ca2+ signaling in platelets. Here, we review recent findings, which identified CalDAG-GEFI as a critical Ca2+ sensor that links increases in intracellular Ca2+ to integrin activation, TxA2 formation, and granule release in stimulated platelets. Furthermore, we summarize work that lead to the discovery of STIM1 and Orai1 as key regulators of store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) in platelets. A short discussion on the usefulness of each molecule as a potential new target for antiplatelet therapy is included.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Platelets / metabolism*
  • Calcium Channels
  • Calcium Signaling*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Neoplasm Proteins
  • ORAI1 Protein
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • Stromal Interaction Molecule 1

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Neoplasm Proteins
  • ORAI1 Protein
  • ORAI1 protein, human
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • STIM1 protein, human
  • Stromal Interaction Molecule 1