Platelet Signaling Pathways and New Inhibitors

Abstract

Recent studies have revealed a series of novel mechanisms that either positively or negatively regulate signaling events downstream of receptor-mediated platelet activation. In several cases, it seems that disruption of these pathways can selectively inhibit thrombosis while leaving essential hemostatic processes largely intact. These pathways may be of considerable interest as potential targets for development of a new generation of antiplatelet agents. Other work has focused on the development of novel antiplatelet agents that inhibit established targets such as P2Y12, PAR1, and GPVI. These agents may overcome some of the limitations of established therapies. It remains to be determined if these novel agents will find clinical use.