Since SDF-1α is known to mediate pro-survival signals, these data suggest a non-conventional role for CXCR7 in platelets supporting potential regenerative and repair mechanisms following vessel injury, which correlates with clinical evidence showing enhanced platelet CXCR7 levels in patients with myocardial infarction [28], [50]. This evidence concerns the gene CXCL12 and myocardial infarction.