Ethanol-inhibited platelet prostaglandin synthesis in vitro.

Abstract

To study the effect of ethanol on platelet prostaglandin synthesis, the formation of malonyldialdehyde (MDA, a byproduct of platelet lipid peroxidations in the pathway to synthesis of prostaglandin endoperoxide) was followed in vitro in platelet-rich plasma obtained from 10 healthy [human] volunteers (aged 22-40; 5 women). Ethanol concentrations of 200, 400 and 750 mg/100 ml decreased n-ethyl-maleimide-induced MDA formation by 19.6, 29.1 and 47.5%, respectively (P < 0.0005), and MDA formation in the presence of thrombin by 21, 28 and 58% (P < 0.0025). I.v. ethanol infusions used for prevention of premature labor result in peak blood alcohol levels comparable to 200 mg/ml in vitro. The inhibition observed at this concentration was limited to the secondary wave of aggregation. At concentrations of 400 and 750 mg/100 ml, inhibition of the secondary wave occurred and there were changes in the primary wave aggregation.