Abstract

Microparticles are a heterogeneous population of small membrane-coated vesicles that represent subcellular elements for cell signaling and intercellular communication in inflammation. Microparticles can be released by virtually all cell types upon activation or apoptosis although, depending upon their origin, they can vary in size, biochemical composition and biological effects. Microparticles contain a wide array of biologically active molecules such as proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. Furthermore, microparticles can transfer cytokines, receptors, RNA and DNA to modulate the properties of target cells. As MPs appear in the blood in increased numbers in many rheumatic diseases, they may also represent novel biomarkers. This talk will summarize the current knowledge about microparticles as regulators of inflammation in rheumatic diseases.