New Research Explores How Thyroid Hormones Could Improve Platelet Production

New research published in Haematologica has identified a mechanism through which thyroid hormones can stimulate platelet production, potentially helping scientists develop more efficient methods of producing platelets for transfusions.

The study, “Thyroid hormones induce an acute platelet release mechanism via integrin αVβ3,” includes Dr. David Wilcox of the Medical College of Wisconsin, a longtime research partner of the Glanzmann Research Foundation (GRF).

GRF is also acknowledged as one of the organizations supporting this research.

What Did Researchers Discover?

Researchers found that the thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3) and several related compounds could stimulate megakaryocytes, the cells responsible for producing platelets, to release platelets more rapidly.

The study identified a signaling pathway involving integrin αVβ3 that helps regulate this process.

In laboratory experiments, certain thyroid hormone analogs significantly increased platelet production. Researchers also showed improved platelet production using a three-dimensional system that mimics aspects of bone marrow.

These findings could inform future methods for producing functional platelets for transfusion.

What Does This Mean for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia?

Glanzmann Thrombasthenia is a rare inherited bleeding disorder in which platelets cannot aggregate normally because of defects involving integrin αIIbβ3.

Unlike disorders characterized by low platelet counts, people with Glanzmann thrombasthenia typically have normal platelet counts but impaired platelet function.

Although this research does not correct the underlying genetic defect, advances in laboratory platelet production could eventually benefit patients who require platelet transfusions, particularly those who have developed antibodies that complicate finding compatible donor platelets.

Importantly, this research remains experimental and does not establish thyroid hormones as a treatment for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia.

GRF’s Commitment to Gene Therapy

Dr. David Wilcox has been involved with the Glanzmann Research Foundation since its beginning and continues to play an important role in advancing research toward gene therapy for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia.

All donations to GRF support gene therapy research, including Dr. Wilcox’s work.

Through continued research and collaboration, we remain committed to advancing gene therapy toward clinical trials and ultimately making it available to patients.

Read the Original Research

Study: Thyroid hormones induce an acute platelet release mechanism via integrin αVβ3

Journal: Haematologica, October 2026

Support Gene Therapy Research: Help GRF continue supporting Dr. Wilcox’s work toward developing gene therapy for Glanzmann Thrombasthenia.