Intracellular signaling in platelets and the role of platelet lipid metabolism and secretome in platelet-mediated vascular, valvular and myocardial thrombo-inflammation

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Oliver Borst
• Subject Area: Cardiology, Angiology
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 521743542

This research project aims to identify molecular signal cascades in platelets, which are significantly involved in platelet-mediated processes of vascular, valvular and myocardial inflammation, as well as in the development of arterial and venous thrombosis. The multi-layered processes of thrombo-inflammation in platelets (intracellular, membrane-related and extracellular/secretory) are to be characterized in more detail and their significance analyzed using various in vivo models. In addition to intracellular signal cascades in platelets, the platelet lipidome (generation of second messenger molecules and modification of the platelet membrane) and the importance of messenger substances released by the platelets (lipids, microRNAs and chemokines) in terms of their importance for the platelet interaction with inflammatory cells and especially for processes of myocardial as well as vascular inflammation and thrombosis are examined. Based on a deeper understanding of the processes of cardiovascular thrombo-inflammation, preventive intervention options, as well as new biomarkers and the development of more selective anti-thrombotic therapy strategies, which leave hemostasis and vascular integrity unaffected, are to be developed.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants