Regulation of platelet function by natural bioactive compounds

Cardiovascular diseases rank first in mortality worldwide. Platelets have been considered the main cardiovascular risk factor since they play an important role, in atherosclerosis and the development of acute thrombotic events. The hyperactivation of platelets leads to platelet aggregation and the formation of clogs, blocking the passage of blood to the different organs and tissues. Blood obstruction contributes to blood vessel stenosis, ischemia, and heart attack. At present, it is vital to find new targets for the development of safer and more effective antiplatelet agents. A diet rich in bioactive compounds can help in the prevention of cardiovascular events since it has been shown that some of these metabolites can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and atherothrombotic disease by inhibiting platelet aggregation. This review aims to collect and discuss the largest amount of information reported updated on the cardioprotective and antiplatelet activities of the different bioactive compounds extracted from natural products. The compounds were divided into different groups (phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids (lycopene and B-carotenes), and sulfides.