Platelet Activation Through G-protein Coupled Receptors

Platelet contains G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that play a key role in platelet activation and thrombus formation in response to various agonists including ADP, thromboxane A<sub>2</sub>, thrombin, epinephrine, and serotonin by coupling to various G-proteins. Since platelets play an important role in health and diseases, platelet GPCRs have been one of the primary drug targets. However, progress should be made in our understanding of GPCR dynamics, activation, and signaling to open new possibilities for selective drug development. In this review, we have summarized the platelet GPCRs, their associated G-protein signaling, and the downstream signaling mechanism that results in both activation and desensitization of platelets. A deeper understanding of the processes behind GPCR-mediated signaling might enable antiplatelet medication to be customized in the future.