Platelet function and protein contents in hematological diseases

Platelets are produced by megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. As circulating small cells with a high protein content they are involved in several biological and pathological processes. Besides the principal task to stop bleedings they contribute to for example wound healing and angiogenesis. Inflammation, atherosclerosis, tumor development and fibrosis can also be affected. Activation of platelets can lead to thromboses. Lowered platelet count or function results in bleedings. Studies of hereditary platelet disorders often yield knowledge that can be generalized, facilitating drug development. Increased platelet activation is a frequent feature in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). We investigate hematological diseases regarding the protein content and function of megakaryocytes and platelets with techniques including mass spectrometry-based proteomics, advanced flow cytometry, and immunostaining.