Identification of functional VEGF receptors on human platelets

Abstract
Platelets secrete platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) upon stimulation. We have demonstrated that platelets have functionally active PDGF α‐receptors, a transmembrane tyrosine kinase involved in negative feedback regulation. Here we demonstrate the presence of the related VEGF receptors fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 and kinase‐insert domain region on human platelets. VEGF itself did not cause platelet aggregation. However, addition of exogenous VEGF to SFRLLN or thrombin‐stimulated platelets potentiated platelet aggregation. Moreover, thrombin‐induced phosphoinositide 3‐kinase and mitogen‐activated protein kinase activity were enhanced in the presence of VEGF.

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