Are megakaryocytes and endothelial cells sisters?
Megakaryocytes and endothelial cells, two important blood and vascular cells, share many similar antigens on their surfaces and in the cytoplasm. It is known that the two types of cells share several developmental regulators: fibroblast growth factors, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, heparin and heparan sulfate, platelet factor 4, transforming growth factor-beta, gamma-interferon, and thrombospondin. Recognition of these common factors and studies with them are broadening the understanding of the pathogenesis of megakaryocytic and angiogenic diseases and encouraging attempts to develop new therapeutic strategies for the future.