Potential for modulation of platelet function via adenosine receptors during inflammation.

Traditionally, platelets are well known to play an important role in haemostasis and thrombosis, however they serve also as important modulators of inflammation and immunity. Platelets secrete adhesion molecules and cytokines, interact with leukocytes and endothelium and also express toll-like receptors involved in a direct interaction with pathogens. Platelets express A 2A and A 2B subtypes of receptors for adenosine. The activation of these receptors leads to an increase in cAMP concentration in the cytoplasm, thereby resulting in inhibited secretion of proinflammatory mediators and reduced cell activation. Therefore, platelet adenosine receptors could be a potential target for inhibiting platelet activation and thus down-regulating inflammation or immunity. The biological effects of adenosine are short-lasting, as the compound is rapidly metabolized, hence it has triggered efforts to synthesize new, long-lasting adenosine analogues. In this article, we have reviewed literature regarding a pharmacological potential of adenosine and other agonists of A 2A and A 2B receptors to affect platelet function during inflammation.