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Title: Platelets and microtubules. Effect of colchicine and D2O on platelet aggregation and release induced by calcium ionophore A23187. Author: Menche D, Israel A, Karpatkin S. Journal: J Clin Invest; 1980 Aug; 66(2):284-91. PubMed ID: 6772671. Abstract: We examined the role of microtubules in platelet aggregation and secretion (release reaction) induced by the calcium ionophore A23187 (0.8-5 muM). At these concentrations, platelet aggregation was preceded by a lag period of approximately 1 min. Colchicine (an agent that disrupts microtubule assembly-disassembly) was shown to bind to platelet microtubules by employing [(3)H]colchicine at a concentration that is specific for microtubules in other tissues (10 nM). Colchicine prolonged the lag period, inhibited the secondary wave of platelet aggregation, and inhibited the release reaction (release of [(14)C]serotonin). Platelets were next incubated with 20-60% D(2)O, an agent that stabilizes microtubules. D(2)O overcame colchicine-induced inhibition of the lag period, aggregation, and release. D(2)O alone enhanced platelet aggregation by 59+/-14% (SEM) and shortened the lag period by 43+/-10%. We conclude that functioning microtubules are required for platelet aggregation and release, and that microtubules of platelet preparations are functioning submaximally.[Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]