Human Cytomegalovirus–Platelet Interaction Triggers Toll-Like Receptor 2–Dependent Proinflammatory and Proangiogenic Responses

Abstract

HCMV is a well-adapted pathogen that does not induce immediate thrombotic events. However, HCMV-platelet interactions lead to proinflammatory and proangiogenic responses, which exacerbate tissue damage and contribute to atherogenesis. Therefore, platelets might contribute to the effects of HCMV in accelerating atherosclerosis.