Although their central role is in the prevention of bleeding, platelets probably contribute to
diverse processes that extend beyond hemostasis and thrombosis. For example, platelets
can recruit leukocytes and progenitor cells to sites of vascular injury and inflammation; they
release proinflammatory and anti‐inflammatory and angiogenic factors and microparticles
into the circulation; and they spur thrombin generation. Data from animal models suggest
that these functions may contribute to atherosclerosis, sepsis, hepatitis, vascular restenosis …