Platelet proteomics applied to the search for novel antiplatelet therapeutic targets

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Unwanted platelet activation is associated with numerous diseases, mainly thrombosis-related. In this context, proteomics has emerged as a novel tool with potential for drug target discovery and to scrutinize the effects of antiplatelet drugs.

Areas covered: The present review presents the main findings of platelet proteomic studies to date in the context of drug target discovery and perspectives for the future ahead. It includes data and evidences obtained from literature searches on PubMed as well as commentaries derived from the authors’ experience and opinions.

Expert commentary: Platelet proteomics applied to drug target discovery is a young field. Recent studies have shown promising data, especially in the context of coronary artery disease. However, challenges remain such as establishing definitive guidelines for blood collection and platelet isolation, essential to guarantee data reproducibility. Recent advances in quantitative platelet proteomics should lead to novel studies with higher clinical impact in the near future.

KEYWORDS:

• Platelet proteomics
• platelet signalling
• platelet receptors
• antiplatelet drugs
• platelet-related diseases

Declaration of interest

The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Additional information

Funding

The authors were supported by the Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO) [grant No. SAF2013-45014-R, co-funded by the European regional development fund (ERDF)], and the Sociedad Española de Trombosis y Hemostasia (SETH).