ABSTRACT
Platelets are anuclear cell fragments produced by megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. Platelet activation and aggregation results in the formation of a platelet plug which is the natural hemostatic response following injuries to the vessel wall. However, the protective mechanism of platelets can lead to harmful results when activated by pathological substrates-erosion or rupture of atherosclerotic plaque. Therefore, ideal antiplatelet treatment should balance prevention of pathological coronary thrombi formation with bleeding tendency. Deciphering the platelet cascade is an essential step towards targeted antiplatelet treatment.
