Ionophore A23187 induces a refractory state in thrombin-activated release of inositol phosphates

The phosphatidylinositol cycle has been proposed to be involved in the regulation of platelet functionality through the control of cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels. However, the requirements of phospholipase C for Ca2+ has not yet been elucidated in intact platelets. The primary purpose of the present study was to investigate the Ca2+ requirements of this enzyme in platelets from miniature swine by taking advantage of the permeabilizing properties of the ionophore A23187. Our results strongly suggest that the treatment of platelets with A23187 induces a refractory state in thrombin-stimulated release of inositol phosphates while 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin)-secretory capacity in response to thrombin remained constant. This refractory state seems to be dependent on some cytochalasin-inhibitable cytoskeletal phenomena.