Targeting myeloid cells to prevent recurrent stroke in general population: the lesson of hydroxyurea in myeloproliferative neoplasms

Recent advances in cell biology have expanded our knowledge on the contribution of myeloid cells, especially leukocytes, to atherosclerosis and arterial thrombosis. Leukocytes, namely monocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils, express and release coagulation and fibrinolytic factors, and interact with the hemostatic system through innate immune functions. As a consequence, inflammatory cell-dependent mechanism and released products are increasingly being considered as potential drug targets for treatment of atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke