Stimulated platelets release amyloid beta-protein precursor

Human platelets can be stimulated by thrombin or ionomycin to secrete soluble truncated amyloid beta-protein precursor and particulate membrane fragments which contain C-terminal and N-terminal immunoreactive amyloid beta-protein precursor. This suggests a possible circulating source of beta-protein in serum which may play a role in the formation of amyloid deposits. The release of soluble amyloid beta-protein precursor could be involved in normal platelet physiology.