Fig. 1.

The mode of interaction of platelets and neutrophils and the consequences of this interaction. Shown are the major receptor–ligand couples involved in the platelet–neutrophil interaction (P-selectin–PSGL1 and GPIbα–Mac-1) and pathways by which platelets enhance leukocyte activation (by release of CCL5 and PF4) and by which neutrophils stimulate platelet activation (by release of elastase and cathepsin G, CathG). Downstream effects of the platelet–neutrophil interaction include increased leucocyte phagocytic activity, increased production of reactive oxygen species, increased transmigration of leukocytes over the endothelial cell lining, production of various bioactive leukotrienes, activation of coagulation via tissue factor (TF), leukocyte-mediated tissue repair and generation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Professional illustration by Patrick Lane, ScEYEnce Studios