Which P2Y receptor is activated at high concentrations of ADP to cause platelet aggregation?

The P2Y12 receptor is crucial for platelet aggregation and is specifically activated by high concentrations of ADP (adenosine diphosphate). When ADP levels rise, especially during platelet activation and in response to vascular injury, P2Y12 plays a significant role in enhancing the platelet aggregation process. This receptor works synergistically with P2Y1, but its specific activation by high ADP concentrations leads to further signaling pathways that promote platelet shape change and aggregation.

In addition, P2Y12 is the target of several important antiplatelet medications, solidifying its role in clinical settings to prevent thrombotic events. By inhibiting this receptor, the medications reduce platelet aggregation, ultimately lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

While other receptors such as P2Y1 and P2X1 are involved in the platelet activation process, they do not specifically respond to high concentrations of ADP in the same way that P2Y12 does. P2Y1 primarily responds to lower concentrations of ADP and is involved in early platelet activation signals, while P2X1 is an ion channel that is activated by ATP rather than ADP. P2Y13 does interact with ADP, but it is not the primary