Examining variation and temporal dynamics of extracellular matrix biomarkers following acute myocardial infarction.

This study investigated an optimal extracellular matrix (ECM) biomarker panel for measurement in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Blood samples were collected from 12 healthy volunteers, and from 23 patients during hospital admission (day 1-3) and 6 months following AMI. Protein assays measured: FGFb, MMP-2, -3, -8, -9, osteopontin, periostin, PINP, TGF-β1, TIMP-1, -4 and VEGF.

Platelets modulate multiple markers of neutrophil function in response to in vitro Toll-like receptor stimulation.

Introduction: In addition to their role in facilitating leukocyte-mediated inflammation, platelets can dampen leukocyte pro-inflammatory responses in some contexts. Consequently, platelets are increasingly appreciated as regulators of inflammation. Together, platelets and neutrophils play a role in inflammation through Toll-like receptor (TLR) expression, although we do not fully understand how platelets shape neutrophil responses to TLR stimulation.