Polymorphisms in platelet membrane proteins might contribute to the association of hormone therapy and thrombosis.
The platelet membrane glycoproteins Ibα (GP1Bα) and VI (GP6) participate in the adherence of platelets to injured vessel walls, which is the initial step in vascular repair. Many genetic polymorphisms of these proteins have been described, and some affect function. However, whether such polymorphisms also increase risk for pathologic thrombosis has been controversial.
To determine whether an association exists between platelet membrane protein polymorphisms and coronary events, researchers genotyped 2090 postmenopausal women with established coronary disease who were participating in the Heart and Estrogen/progestin Replacement Study (HERS). The women had been randomized to hormone therapy (HT) or to placebo; they were followed for 5.8 years…