In this episode of Speaking of Mol Bio, Dr. Beth Webb takes us deep into the world of platelets, often misunderstood components of blood that punch far above their weight in both physiological and pathological processes. As a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Leeds, Dr. Webb explores how endothelial signals influence platelet activity, and how these anucleate cell fragments play roles not only in clotting, but also in immune responses, inflammation, and diseases like cardiovascular disorders and COVID-19.

Beth unpacks the technical challenges of isolating and analyzing platelets—particularly in RNA sequencing and qPCR—while stressing the importance of sample purity and the presence of platelet subpopulations. The conversation also touches on the hope of personalized medicine through platelet-based diagnostics and tailored antiplatelet therapies.

Beyond the lab, Dr. Webb is an active science communicator, sharing tips on engaging broader audiences through social media, blogs, and video. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, creativity, and starting small when communicating science. Whether you're a cell biologist, a hematology enthusiast, or a fellow communicator, this episode offers something for everyone.

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For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.