Topic: New Frontiers in Platelet Function

Circulating platelets are central players in hemostasis as they possess an intricate signaling machinery that promptly reacts to endothelial damage sustaining the formation of a hemostatic plug. Their remarkable reactivity also supports pathological coagulative dysfunctions that lead to thrombotic disorders, making blood platelets an important pharmacological target to prevent arterial ischemia. Nevertheless, the functions of platelets extend beyond thrombosis and hemostasis, and these cells are recognized to contribute to several different physiological and pathological processes. A growing body of evidence indicates that platelets are involved in inflammation, angiogenesis, and wound healing, but also support the progression of pathological conditions, including cancer metastasis and Alzheimer's disease.
The underlying mechanisms of the platelets' contribution to these processes are still largely unknown, but it is conceivable that platelets may represent novel future targets for adjuvant pharmacological treatments for malignancies, degenerative disorders and other dysfunctions. We invite investigators to contribute to this Special Issue, sharing their recent advances on the contribution of platelets to physiological or pathological processes. Both confirmatory and contradictory studies are welcome and different types of papers are acceptable, including research articles, reviews, communications and technical notes.

Platelet functions beyond hemostasis, cancer, degenerative disorders, inflammation, tissue repair1