Mode of Action

Mode of Action of Antiplatelets

Platelets have multiple surface receptors for pro-aggregat stimuli, including collagen, adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and thrombin. Ligand-binding to these receptors triggers a cascade of intracellular signals, finally leading to the conversion of the platelet surface glycoprotein IIb/IIIa complex (GP IIb/IIIa) to a binding site for fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor and other adhesion molecules, which anchor adjacent platelets into aggregates. Antithrombotic agents target different steps in this cascade of prothrombotic signals.