Platelets: A review of their function and effects in liver diseases

Platelets are small fragments of the cytoplasm and are detached from the cytoplasm of mature megakaryocytes. They play an important role in the function of blood coagulation in humans. Recent studies have shown that in addition to participating in hemostasis, platelets play a critical role in liver regeneration, liver inflammation, liver tumors, injury, and other liver diseases by regulating the activation of stellate cells and the interaction between Kupffer cells and sinusoidal endothelial cells. Targeting platelets and their related molecules is a promising treatment strategy in the management of liver diseases. Here, we review the role of platelets and their related molecules in the development of liver diseases and the application of targeted drugs.