Platelet function and serum high density lipoproteins

Two groups of healthy male subjects one with low (mean 1.03 mmol/l), and the other with normal (mean 1.80 mmol/l), concentrations of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in plasma were investigated. A series of in vitro platelet function tests were performed in order to investigate a possible connection between low HDL concentration, which has been defined as an independent risk factor for the occurrence of CHD, and disturbances in platelet function. No significant differences in platelet function were observed between the two groups. A positive correlation was found between platelet factor 3 activity both in platelet rich and platelet poor plasma and the plasma concentration of HDL.