Platelet-cancer Crosstalk: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

Abstract

Platelets are small anucleate blood cells that are central to primary haemostasis. However, platelets are also implicated in cancer pathogenesis. This thesis showed that cancer cells promote thrombosis by activating platelets, and in turn, platelets provide cancer cells with growth factors to render cancer more aggressive and chemoresistant. The thesis demonstrated a therapeutic benefit of combined antiplatelet, ticagrelor, and chemo drugs, on cancer treatment.