Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (gpIIb/IIIa, also known as integrin αIIbβ3) is an integrin complex found on platelets.
It is a receptor for fibrinogen and aids in platelet activation.
The complex is formed via calcium-dependent association of gpIIb and gpIIIa, a required step in normal platelet aggregation and endothelial adherence.
Platelet activation by ADP (blocked by clopidogrel) leads to a conformational change in platelet gpIIb/IIIa receptors that induces binding to fibrinogen.
The gpIIb/IIIa receptor is a target of several drugs.
Defects in glycoprotein IIb/IIIa cause Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia.
Autoantibodies against IIb/IIIa can be produced in immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors can be used to prevent blood clots in an effort to decrease the risk of heart attack or stroke.
A platelet surface receptor that plays a key role in formation of a platelet rich thrombus by combining with fibrinogen and other ligands.
Is the primary platelet receptor of fibrinogen.
Several GpIIb/IIIa inhibitors exist: abciximab (ReoPro), eptifibatide (Integrilin) and tirofiban (Aggrastat).
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors are frequently used during percutaneous coronary interventions, presenting platelet aggregation and clot formation.
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors may also be used to treat acute coronary syndromes.
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors are given intravenously.