
CD41

The CD41/CD61 complex appears early in megakaryocyte maturation. The activated CD41/CD61 complex is a receptor for von Willebrand factor, soluble fibrinogen and fibronectin and plays a central role in platelet activation and aggregation. CD41 is expressed to a variable degree in megakaryoblastic/cytic leukaemias. It is absent from, or defective on the platelets of patients suffering from Glanzmann's thrombasthenia.