Platelets at the interface of thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer

Abstract

Although once primarily recognized for its roles in hemostasis and thrombosis, the platelet has been increasingly recognized as a multipurpose cell. Indeed, circulating platelets have the ability to influence a wide range of seemingly unrelated pathophysiologic events. Here, we highlight some of the notable observations that link platelets to inflammation, reinforcing the platelet’s origin from a lower vertebrate cell type with both hemostatic and immunologic roles. In addition, we consider the relevance of platelets in cancer biology by focusing on the hallmarks of cancer and the ways platelets can influence multistep development of tumors. Beyond its traditional role in hemostasis and thrombosis, the platelet’s involvement in the interplay between hemostasis, thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer is likely complex, yet extremely important in each disease process. The existence of animal models of platelet dysfunction and currently used antiplatelet therapies provide a framework for understanding mechanistic insights into a wide range of pathophysiologic events. Thus, the basic scientist studying platelet function can think beyond the traditional hemostasis and thrombosis paradigms, while the practicing hematologist must appreciate platelet relevance in a wide range of disease processes.

Causes of Variation in The Neutrophil–Lymphocyte and Platelet–Lymphocyte Ratios: a Twin-Family Study

“…With respect to PLR, overall, higher PLR in our study was related to lower lympho cyte and higher platelet numbers. Platelets play an important role in angiogenesis, thrombosis and hemostasis and increased platelet numbers have been implicated in the development of cardiovascular disease [48] and cancer progression [49]. Further study of the relationship of the two ratios with smoking and BMI in a longitudinal sample, with attention to sex differences and interactions, may provide important information about the way lifestyle influences our health.…”

Feedback Amplification of Neutrophil Function

“…Moreover, cathepsin G can cause platelet aggregation [98]. In the presence of LPS, platelets provoke NET formation, which activates the coagulation cascade with an increase in the local platelet-activating thrombin concentration [99].…”

“…Moreover, NETs can directly activate platelets [99] ( Figure 4D). For further information, we refer to previous review articles [100,101].…”

White blood cell and platelet indices as prognostic markers in patients with invasive ductal breast carcinoma

“…White blood cells are key mediators in this response (2), in addition to platelets, which are involved in mechanisms promoting tumor growth and metastasis (4)(5)(6). Various white blood cell and platelet indices, including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet count, mean platelet volume and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, have been reported as potential markers for predicting the progression or recurrence of disease and/or overall survival in several forms of cancer (7)(8)(9)(10).…”