Platelet activation under conditions of flow

Platelets circulate at high velocity through the vasculature. Due to their small size, they are pushed towards the vascular wall. This allows them to rapidly respond to injuries through the formation of a platelet plug and seal off any defect they encounter. Platelets are continuously exposed to shear forces and are well adapted to changes in rheology. They can withstand huge shear stress and are equipped with receptors that allow them to interact with a variety of extracellular matrix proteins. Most of the knowledge we have on platelet function under conditions of flow was obtained with flow chambers. In recent years, flow chambers have evolved to become a versatile platform for studying haemostasis and thrombosis. This chapter describes several extracellular matrix proteins to which platelets can adhere and the receptors they interact with. Furthermore, it provides an overview of the current state of the art with respect to flow chambers.