Free reelin' along the platelet surface

Abstract

Adhesive proteins associated with the extracellular matrix that engage with the platelet surface, such as collagen, VWF (von Willebrand Factor), fibrin, and fibrinogen, all have major roles as ligands for the primary platelet receptors that mediate platelet activation, secretion, and aggregation. In this issue of Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, Krüger et al1 report an intriguing set of data that indicate a role for the extracellular matrix protein reelin in platelet signaling, cytoskeletal organization, and in thrombus formation. Interestingly, this team demonstrates that the platelet receptor GP (glycoprotein) VI is an important mediator of reelin-invoked platelet events and in doing so, adds to the catalog of platelet proteins that interact with reelin.