While total body irradiation is essential to eradicate malignant cells and to generate niche sites for a donor-derived new haematopoietic system, it also destroys the bone marrow microenvironment. A long lasting low platelet count after irradiation leads to bleedings and clinical problems. We will study the interaction of murine megakaryocytes with the vascular niche by electron and two-photon microscopy and how subendothelial proteins modulate this interaction. Mutual bone marrow transplantations will dissect the key players to improve platelet recovery after irradiation.
