thrombopoiesis

Thrombopoiesis is the process by which the body produces platelets, essential cell fragments for blood clotting. It begins in the bone marrow, where stem cells develop into megakaryocytes, large cells that eventually shed small pieces—platelets—into the bloodstream. These platelets circulate until there’s a blood vessel injury, where they quickly gather to form clots and prevent excessive bleeding. The process is regulated by hormones like thrombopoietin, ensuring a steady supply of platelets to maintain healthy blood clotting and vascular integrity.