Inflammatory role of platelets in acute coronary syndromes

[...]CD40L stimulation increases the expression of adhesion molecules, chemokines, and inflammatory cytokines leading to recruitment and activation of leucocytes within the plaque. 4 14 Secondly, both soluble and membrane bound CD40L are potent inducers and activators of MMPs in macrophages and vascular SMC, 14 and such activation may play a crucial role in undermining the integrity of tissue components in an atherosclerotic plaque. 1 2 Finally, CD40-CD40L interaction may promote thrombotic activity by enhancing tissue factor expression in macrophages and through direct regulation of endothelium associated procoagulant activity. 14 Consequently, in acute coronary syndromes activated platelets may, by providing CD40L, contribute to inflammatory reactions, MMP activation, and procoagulant activity within an atherosclerotic plaque.