Platelet CD40L Modulates Thrombus Growth Via Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase β, and Not Via CD40 and IκB Kinase α

Objective— To investigate the roles and signaling pathways of CD40L and CD40 in platelet–platelet interactions and thrombus formation under conditions relevant for atherothrombosis. Approach and Results— Platelets from mice prone to atherosclerosis lacking CD40L ( Cd40lg −/− Apoe −/− ) showed diminished α IIb β 3 activation and α-granule secretion in response to glycoprotein VI stimulation, whereas these responses of CD40-deficient platelets (...