AUTHOR=Yang Shuo , Wang Long , Wu Yuesong , Wu Anguo , Huang Feihong , Tang Xiaoqin , Kantawong Fahsai , Anuchapreeda Songyot , Qin Dalian , Mei Qibing , Chen Jianping , Huang Xinwu , Zhang Chunxiang , Wu Jianming TITLE=Apoptosis in megakaryocytes: Safeguard and threat for thrombopoiesis JOURNAL=Frontiers in Immunology VOLUME=13 YEAR=2023 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1025945 DOI=10.3389/fimmu.2022.1025945 ISSN=1664-3224 ABSTRACT=

Platelets, generated from precursor megakaryocytes (MKs), are central mediators of hemostasis and thrombosis. The process of thrombopoiesis is extremely complex, regulated by multiple factors, and related to many cellular events including apoptosis. However, the role of apoptosis in thrombopoiesis has been controversial for many years. Some researchers believe that apoptosis is an ally of thrombopoiesis and platelets production is apoptosis-dependent, while others have suggested that apoptosis is dispensable for thrombopoiesis, and is even inhibited during this process. In this review, we will focus on this conflict, discuss the relationship between megakaryocytopoiesis, thrombopoiesis and apoptosis. In addition, we also consider why such a vast number of studies draw opposite conclusions of the role of apoptosis in thrombopoiesis, and try to figure out the truth behind the mystery. This review provides more comprehensive insights into the relationship between megakaryocytopoiesis, thrombopoiesis, and apoptosis and finds some clues for the possible pathological mechanisms of platelet disorders caused by abnormal apoptosis.