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Regulation of the genetic code in megakaryocytes and platelets
Author(s) -
Rondina M. T.,
Weyrich A. S.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
journal of thrombosis and haemostasis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.947
H-Index - 178
eISSN - 1538-7836
pISSN - 1538-7933
DOI - 10.1111/jth.12965
Subject(s) - platelet , megakaryocyte , biology , genetic code , translation (biology) , microrna , microbiology and biotechnology , immunology , rna , platelet activation , messenger rna , genetics , computational biology , gene , stem cell , haematopoiesis
Summary Platelets are generated from nucleated precursors referred to as megakaryocytes. The formation of platelets is one of the most elegant and unique developmental processes in eukaryotes. Because they enter the circulation without nuclei, platelets are often considered simple, non‐complex cells that have limited functions beyond halting blood flow. However, emerging evidence over the past decade demonstrates that platelets are more sophisticated than previously considered. Platelets carry a rich repertoire of messenger RNA s ( mRNA s), micro RNA s (mi RNA s), and proteins that contribute to primary (adhesion, aggregation, secretion) and alternative (immune regulation, RNA transfer, translation) functions. It is also becoming increasingly clear that the ‘genetic code’ of platelets changes with race, genetic disorders, or disease. Changes in the ‘genetic code’ can occur at multiple points including megakaryocyte development, platelet formation, or in circulating platelets. This review focuses on regulation of the ‘genetic code’ in megakaryocytes and platelets and its potential contribution to health and disease.