Physiology and Ultrastructure of the Blood Platelet following Exposure to Hydrogen Peroxide

Abstract

Hydrogen peroxide in micromolar concentrations can induce shape change in human blood platelets, and can modify the aggregation and release reaction of these cells as induced by ADP or thrombin. In larger (millimolar) concentrations, H2O2 produces fusion of platelets with distortions in platelet morphology unlike those normally caused by aggregating agents. The production of H2O2 in vivo by granulocytes or other cells could influence the processes of haemostasis or thrombosis.