Figures & data
Figure 1. Direct interaction: bacteria express proteins that interact directly with a platelet surface receptor. In this case, they have ligand-mimetic domain that act as agonist on the platelet receptor. Indirect interaction: bacteria bind a plasma protein that acts as a bridge and is a natural ligand for a platelet receptor. Secreted products: bacteria also have the potential to secrete products that can in turn directly activate platelets.
Table 1. Identified molecular interactions between oral pathogens and platelets.