Platelets play a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, acute coronary syndromes and ischaemic complications following percutaneous coronary intervention. More recently, the platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa receptor has been identified as the pivotal mediator of platelet aggregation, leading to thrombus formation. This has led to the emergence of a novel class of potent antiplatelet agents, the GP IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists. These agents show great promise in reducing ischaemic complications of coronary angioplasty and acute coronary syndromes. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge of the biology of the GP IIb/IIIa receptor, the different classes of GP IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists, the results of the various trials, and their impact on current clinical practice.
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The author(s) declare there are no affiliations with or involvement in any organisation or entity with any financial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.
