The physiology and pathophysiology of P-selectin

Abstract

P-selectin is an important leukocyte adhesion molecule mediating the initial capture and rolling of leukocytes and therefore contributing to an effective recruitment of leukocytes to sites of inflammation. In animal models, blockade of P-selectin dependent adhesion has been shown to prevent tissue injury in ischemia/reperfusion events or the progression of lesion formation in atherosclerosis. However, clinical trials have yet to confirm these promising results before patients may benefit from this therapy. In addition, it should be stressed that several differences in the physiology and pathophysiology of P-selectin exist between humans and rodents, which may lead to unexpected results in clinical trails.