Effect of Platelet Activation on Apoptosis and Damage of Endothelial Cells

doi:10.3870/j.issn.1672-8009.2026.03.004

Abstract

Abstract: Objective To investigate the effect of platelet activation on the apoptosis of endothelial cells. Methods Platelets were prepared from venous blood,obtained from healthy subjects.Resting platelet suspension,activating platelet suspension,and endothelial cells were cultured in vitro to establish the co-culture model of platelets and endothelial cells.The aggregation,adhesion and release process of platelets after activation and the apoptosis process of endothelial cells were observed by live-cell imaging technique.The endothelial cell survival activity and mitochondrial membrane potential were then detected by kits. Results Activated platelets exhibited significant aggregation,adhesion,and release responses.Compared to resting platelets,activated platelets aggregated,migrated toward endothelial cells,and adhered to them.Live-cell imaging revealed that activated platelets induced nuclear pyknosis,condensation,marginalization,reduced nuclear volume,fragmentation,and the formation of apoptotic bodies in endothelial cells.Compared to the resting platelet group,the activated platelet group showed reduced endothelial cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential. Conclusion Platelet activation induces apoptotic injury in endothelial cells.

Key words: platelets, endothelial cells, apoptosis, live-cell imaging system

CLC Number:

R543

LIU Hongli, LI Kun, YUE Wen, WEI Geng, LIANG Junqing, TIAN Jinyue. Effect of Platelet Activation on Apoptosis and Damage of Endothelial Cells[J]. Journal of Medical Molecular Biology, 2026, 23(3): 258-265.

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