The role of Quaking (isoforms) in platelet aggregation

In the process of platelet aggregation, the forming thrombus develops a very distinctive architecture, with a core of densely packed platelets, overlaid by a shell of loosely packed, adherent platelets. The core of the thrombus is consolidated with filamentous actin (F-Actin; red) which gives the thrombus its strength to withstand blood flow. We have studied expression of alternatively spliced isoforms of the protein Quaking, which may be involved directly or indirectly in F-actin polymerization. These isoforms appeared to be absent in the thrombus core, but highly expressed in the shell. The inventory of expression of proteins involved in F-Actin polymerization and their localization in a thrombus may give insight into the actual processes of vessel sealing.