Level, distribution and correlates of platelet-derived microparticles in healthy individuals with special reference to the metabolic syndrome.

Platelet-derived microparticles (PDMPs), a procoagulant factor, are reportedly elevated in type 2 diabetes mellitus and acute coronary syndrome. The metabolic syndrome (MS) is strongly associated with cardio- and cerebrovascular disease-related atherothrombotic events. To clarify the level, distribution and correlates of PDMPs with special reference to MS, we conducted a cross-sectional study of 467 healthy Japanese volunteers without signs, symptoms, or a history of cardio- or cerebrovascular disease.