Anti-platelet treatments in cancer: Basic and clinical research. Issue 164 (April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gresele, Paolo; Malvestiti, Marco; Momi, Stefania
• Is Part Of: Thrombosis research. Issue 164(2018)Supplement 1
• Page Start: S106
• Page End: S111
• Publication Date: 2018-04
• Subjects: Cyclooxygenase -- Metastasis -- P2Y12 -- Phosphodiesterases -- Platelets -- Platelet-therapy; Thrombosis -- Periodicals; 616.135
• DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2017.12.016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0049-3848

Abstract

Abstract: Over the past few decades the central role that platelets play in cancer development and progression, and especially in metastasis, has been elucidated. The molecular mechanisms responsible for initiating and mediating tumor cell-induced platelet aggregation and secretion have been largely unravelled. Considerable mechanistic insight into how platelets contribute to tumor angiogenesis, immunoevasion and cancer cell invasion have been clarified and, consequently, platelets have been identified as potential new drug targets for cancer therapy. This article gives an overview of the platelet-targeted pharmacologic approaches that have been attempted in the prevention of cancer development, progression and metastasis, including the application of antiplatelet drugs currently used for cardiovascular disease and of new and novel strategies. Highlights: Platelets play a key role in tumor growth and metastasis. Tumor cell-induced platelet activation is crucial in the role of platelets in cancer. Anti-platelet drugs or the use of platelets as drug carriers are promising anticancer approaches.