Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Shlomo on 30/10/2005 23:38:21

Title: How are blood platelets formed?
Post by: Shlomo on 30/10/2005 23:38:21

I have been diagnosed with ITP syndrome (Destruction of platelets
). I’m not asking for medical advice (I’m getting good care). What I’m interested is the scientific explanation of the production of the platelets, the chemical & cell structure etc..!   
thank you!

Title: How are blood platelets formed?
Post by: chris on 05/07/2008 23:01:14

Hi Shlomo

Platelets are bits of cells which are formed by large precursor cells called megakaryocytes that are found in the bone marrow. These cells extrude fine membrane-enclosed extensions of their cytoplasm which project into the blood flowing through the bone marrow cavity.

At a certain point the shearing force of the blood flow pushing against the cell membrane causes the extension to literally "snap off" and float away in the blood. This snapped off piece becomes the platelet; it's devoid of any nucleus (genetic material) and is many times smaller than the red and white blood cells. The platelets do, however, contain numerous "granules" which are tiny sacs charged with chemical mediators including ADP, serotonin and calcium, all of which assist the platelet in blocking a bleeding blood vessel following an injury.

Chris