The differences of platelet response to snake venoms: A comparative study of children and adults

Abstract

Platelets play a vital role in the coagulation, yet the potential for differences in platelet function, between adults and children, remains underexplored. This is despite the age-related variation in haemostatic proteins, that is encompassed by the term Developmental Haemostasis. Hemotoxins found in the venoms of Australian snakes mimic human blood coagulation factors. The effects of Australian snake venoms on platelets, as well as the possible differential response in adults and children were subject of this study. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.