Nanodiagnostics, nanopharmacology and nanotoxicology of platelet–vessel wall interactions

Abstract

In physiological conditions, the interactions between blood platelets and endothelial cells play a major role in vascular reactivity and hemostasis. By contrast, increased platelet activation contributes to the pathogenesis of vascular pathology such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and carcinogenesis. Nanomedicine, including nanodiagnostics and nanotherapeutics is poised to be used in the management of vascular diseases. However, the inherent risk and potential toxicity resultant from the use of nanosized (<100 nm) materials need to be carefully considered. This review, basing on a systematic search of literature provides state-of-the-art and focuses on new discoveries, as well as the potential benefits and threats in the field of nanodiagnostics, nanopharmacology and nanotoxicology of platelet–vessel wall interactions.