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Rockefeller University Press, Journal of Cell Biology, 6(201), p. 785-796, 2013

DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201304054

Rockefeller University Press, Journal of Experimental Medicine, 7(210), p. 2107OIA17

DOI: 10.1084/jem.2107oia17

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The incredible journey: From megakaryocyte development to platelet formation

Journal article published in 2013 by Kellie R. Machlus ORCID, Joseph E. Italiano
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

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Abstract

Circulating blood platelets are specialized cells that prevent bleeding and minimize blood vessel injury. Large progenitor cells in the bone marrow called megakaryocytes (MKs) are the source of platelets. MKs release platelets through a series of fascinating cell biological events. During maturation, they become polyploid and accumulate massive amounts of protein and membrane. Then, in a cytoskeletal-driven process, they extend long branching processes, designated proplatelets, into sinusoidal blood vessels where they undergo fission to release platelets. Given the need for platelets in many pathological situations, understanding how this process occurs is an active area of research with important clinical applications.