Differences in plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 activity between blacks and whites may be diet related

Two matched groups of healthy non-smoking male volunteers between 18 and 23 years old and with a body mass index of 19-24 kg/m2 were selected from urban whites (n = 15) and from rural Vendas (blacks; n = 17). Fasting venous blood samples were collected between 07.00 and 10.00 h, and a validated food frequency questionnaire was administered. The results showed highly significant differences in dietary patterns. Significant differences were observed with regard to serum cholesterol (p < 0.02), percentage high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.02), calculated insulin sensitivity index (p < 0.04), and plasma fibrinogen levels (p < 0.03). Tissue plasminogen activator antigen did not differ significantly. The plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 activity was significantly lower (p < 0.0001) in the Vendas than in the whites. It is concluded that diet may be an important determinant of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 activity.