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Sex difference in platelet aggregation detected by new aggregometry using light scattering.
S F Haque1, H Matsubayashi, S Izumi
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Bohseidai, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan.
Endocrine Journal
|June 14, 2001
Summary
Females exhibit greater platelet aggregation than males, particularly at low adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP) concentrations. Sex hormones like testosterone and estradiol show counteracting effects on platelet aggregation, suggesting a complex interplay influencing these sex differences.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Reproductive Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Conventional light transmission (LT) aggregometry suggests higher platelet aggregability in females than males, though findings are debated.
- The recently developed laser light scattering (LS) method offers enhanced sensitivity for detecting smaller platelet aggregates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex differences in platelet aggregation using the laser light scattering (LS) method.
- To explore the influence of sex hormones (estradiol and testosterone) on platelet aggregation in males and females.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples from healthy male and female volunteers were analyzed for platelet aggregation using both LT and LS methods.
- Platelet-rich plasma was stimulated with varying concentrations of adenosine 5 -diphosphate (ADP).
- Platelets were incubated with estradiol or testosterone to assess their effects on aggregation.
Main Results:
- LT method confirmed greater female platelet aggregability.
- LS method revealed females formed more medium aggregates than males at low ADP concentrations (< or = 1 microM).
- Testosterone reduced small aggregates, while estradiol decreased all aggregate sizes.
Conclusions:
- Females are more prone to platelet aggregation than males at physiological ADP levels.
- Estradiol and testosterone exhibit opposing effects on platelet aggregation.
- The lower aggregability in males may be partly due to higher testosterone levels, but further research is needed.