Publications

PECAM-1 (CD31) is required for interactions of platelets with endothelial cells after irradiation

Marie-Hélène Gaugler, Valérie Vereycken-Holler, Claire Squiban, Jocelyne Aigueperse, Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 2004, 2: 2020-2026

Document type > *Article de revue

Keywords > irradiation, oxysterols

Research Unit > IRSN

Authors > AIGUEPERSE Jocelyne, GAUGLER Marie-Hélène, HOLLER Valérie, SQUIBAN Claire

Publication Date > 01/12/2004

Summary

Background: Sustained adhesion of platelets to endothelial cells (EC) is believed to contribute to thrombosis and vascular occlusions following radiation exposure leading to organ functional impairment and even death. Objectives: Our objective was to evaluate the role of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM)-1 in the prothrombotic response of EC after irradiation. Methods: Endothelial PECAM-1 expression was determined by cell-enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on human microvascular EC from lung (HMVEC-L) up to 21 days after a 10 Gy irradiation. Platelet- and leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions were assessed using a flow adhesion assay with fluorescently labelled whole blood, and the function of PECAM-1 in these processes was measured by using blocking antibody. Results: PECAM-1 expression was significantly increased on irradiated HMVEC-L and remained elevated at 21 days. Anti-PECAM-1 antibody significantly inhibited adhesion of single platelets and thrombi on irradiated HMVEC-L. This inhibitory effect persisted at day 21. Anti-PECAM-1 also reduced leukocyte adhesion to irradiated HMVEC-L. Conclusions: The upregulation of endothelial PECAM-1 following radiation exposure is persistent. PECAM-1 plays a key role platelet adhesion/aggregation on irradiated EC. Therefore, strategies targeting this adhesion molecule may prevent the development of radiation pathologies.