Recent Aspects of TXA₂Action on Platelets and Blood Vessels

Thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)) has recently become a target of intense research because of its myriad of potent pathophysiological properties. Recent progress in TXA(2) research is reviewed in relation to: (1) characterisation of TXA, receptors in platelets and vasculature by kinetic analysis, with evidence for the presence of distinctive receptor subtypes; (2) actions of TXA(2) in platelets and vasculature via their own receptors, i.e. biochemical mechanisms of signal transduction; and (3) pathophysiological roles of TXA(2) and clinical perspectives of TXA(2) blocking therapy.