The clinical impact of platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor blockade in cardiovascular medicine

Jpn Circ J. 1998 Apr;62(4):233-43. doi: 10.1253/jcj.62.233.

Abstract

Several of the adverse events that occur in acute coronary syndromes and after percutaneous coronary revascularization procedures are believed to be mediated by platelets. Recently, using molecular biology techniques, the platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor was identified as the final common pathway for platelet aggregation. Thus, blocking the action of this receptor would seem to be an attractive proposition for reducing ischemic complications. A monoclonal antibody was the first agent in this new pharmacological family to be designed, but several peptide and peptide-like substances have subsequently been developed. This paper reviews the development of this class of agents and the various preclinical and clinical trials that have been undertaken. Early studies evaluated such agents during percutaneous coronary revascularization procedures. Because of the overwhelming benefits observed in such patients, together with the current limitations of treatments for acute coronary syndromes, the scope of investigations has been extended. Preliminary reports have been encouraging.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Platelets / physiology*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Coronary Disease / blood*
  • Coronary Disease / drug therapy*
  • Coronary Disease / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex / physiology*

Substances

  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex