Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have discovered a secondary population of platelets that appear with aging, with hyperreactive behavior and unique molecular properties that make them easier to target with medication. These platelets are produced through a shortcut pathway from hematopoietic stem cells, separate from the main pathway leading to platelet production. Understanding this distinction could help develop more effective treatments for blood clotting diseases in aging individuals. The researchers are also investigating the presence of this secondary platelet population in human cells and exploring ways to manipulate and control this pathway for better management of clotting disorders.
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Study uncovers unique platelet population linked to aging and blood clotting diseases
