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High-affinity platelet [3H]LSD binding is decreased in panic disorder.
T R Norman1, F K Judd, V Staikos
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Vic., Australia.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Patients with panic attacks showed significantly lower platelet [3H]LSD binding capacity (Bmax) compared to controls. This finding supports a role for the serotonin system in the development of panic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Panic disorder is a debilitating psychiatric condition.
- The serotonergic system is implicated in the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders.
- Platelets express serotonin receptors and can serve as a model system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential alterations in serotonin receptor binding in patients with panic disorder.
- To examine platelet [3H]LSD binding as a potential biomarker for panic disorder.
Main Methods:
- Platelet-rich plasma was obtained from 15 patients with panic attacks and 15 healthy controls.
- [3H]LSD binding assays were performed to determine Bmax (maximum binding capacity) and Kd (dissociation constant).
- Statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitney U-test was employed to compare patient and control groups.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant difference was observed in Bmax values between patients (14.1 +/- 6.3 fmol/mg protein) and controls (18.5 +/- 4.7 fmol/mg protein) (P < 0.05).
- No significant difference was found in Kd values between the groups (patients: 0.55 +/- 0.34 nM; controls: 0.51 +/- 0.12 nM) (P > 0.1).
Conclusions:
- Reduced platelet [3H]LSD binding capacity suggests a potential dysfunction in the serotonergic system in individuals with panic disorder.
- These findings lend support to the serotonergic hypothesis regarding the etiology of panic disorders.
- Platelet serotonin receptor binding may represent a useful biological marker for panic disorder research.