Thromboxane generation by human monocytes enhances platelet function.

Human monocytes potentiate the ADP-stimulated aggregation of autologous platelets through a fourfold increased binding of 125I-fibrinogen to the platelet surface. The enhancement of platelet function is rapid, relatively transient and is due to thromboxane (Tx) synthesized by monocytes under these conditions. Tx generation by monocytes is triggered by the interaction between fibrinogen and the specific monocyte membrane receptor. These data suggest that the monocyte enhancement of platelet function combined with the clot-promoting activity of these cells might unbalance normal hemostasis.