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Taurine modulates platelet aggregation in cats and humans
K C Hayes1, A Pronczuk, A E Addesa
1Foster Biomedical Research Laboratory, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02254.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Taurine status significantly impacts platelet aggregation. Taurine depletion increases platelet sensitivity, while supplementation enhances resistance, highlighting taurine
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Hematology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Platelet aggregation is a critical factor in hemostasis and thrombosis.
- The role of taurine, an amino acid, in regulating platelet function is not fully understood.
- Understanding taurine's influence on platelet behavior is crucial for cardiovascular health research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between whole-body taurine status and platelet aggregation.
- To evaluate the effect of taurine depletion and supplementation on platelet aggregability.
Main Methods:
- Measured taurine concentrations in plasma and platelets.
- Assessed ex vivo collagen-induced platelet aggregation in taurine-depleted cats and taurine-supplemented humans.
- Analyzed platelet taurine, glutathione concentrations, and thromboxane release.
Main Results:
- Taurine status significantly affected platelet aggregability.
- Platelets from taurine-depleted cats showed twice the sensitivity to aggregation compared to controls.
- Taurine supplementation (400-1600 mg/d) in humans increased platelet resistance to aggregation by 30-70%.
Conclusions:
- In vivo taurine stabilizes platelets, reducing their tendency to aggregate.
- Taurine depletion leads to hypersensitive platelets, increasing aggregation risk.
- Taurine supplementation depresses platelet aggregation, potentially offering a protective effect.