Figure 3.

The role of SRC kinase during megakaryopoiesis. During megakaryocyte (MK) maturation, MK migrate from the osteoblastic to the vascular niche by interacting with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The mature MK use podosomes to migrate from the osteoblastic to the vascular niche and through the vascular wall, to extend proplatelets and finally release platelets into the blood circulation. Opposite to its role in platelets, the integrin α_IIbβ₃ outside-in signaling pathway is not active in maturating MK. SRC can activate the actin-binding protein cortactin (CTTN) during MK maturation.