Platelets and Megakaryocytes in Inflammation

Platelets have long been regarded as bystanders in inflammation, primarily known for their hemostatic capacity. In recent years overwhelming evidence has been presented showing the prominent involvement of platelets in various inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis, arthritis, and pulmonary infection. Herein, platelets influence the course of inflammation by mediator-release and cell-cell-interaction based recruitment effects. Furthermore, platelets and megakaryocytes are themselves differentially affected by inflammation, leading to a state of modulated activation or changed platelet numbers.

This Research Topic focuses on recent advances in the field of platelets and megakaryocytes in inflammation. Current knowledge on regulatory interplay is to be summarized to evolve in new hypotheses and original research showing the involvement of platelets and affectation of platelets and megakaryocytes by inflammation is to be presented.

The overarching goal of this Research Topic is to produce a body of literature which substantiates the knowledge on platelet-inflammation interplay allowing for a more profound understanding and future therapeutic endeavors. We welcome submission of Original Research, Review, Mini Review, and Perspective articles focusing on, but not limited to, the following sub-topics:

• The role of platelets and megakaryocytes in inflammation.
• Differences of platelets in acute vs. chronic inflammation.
• Effects of inflammation on platelets and megakaryocytes.
• Therapeutics in inflammation and its impact on platelets and megakaryocytes.
• Novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to target platelets and/or megakaryocytes in inflammation.
• Platelet related organ damage in inflammation.