Inhibition of platelet activity with red wine and grape products.

Abstract

Platelets are known to contribute to the development of coronary artery atherosclerotic disease by several mechanisms [1]. Platelets are also primarily involved in forming the occlusive thrombus in the narrowed coronary artery that leads to fatal or non-fatal myocardial infarction (heart attack) [1]. It is known that patients with diabetes, hypertension, elevated LDL cholesterol, or patients who smoke have hyperactive platelets [2]. This is likely to exacerbate the atherothrombotic process. A number of clinical trials have shown that aspirin, a platelet inhibitor, given daily significantly reduces the incidence of symptoms of coronary artery disease and heart attacks [3]. It seems reasonable to assume that by taking “something” on a daily basis that turns down platelet activity, one could reduce the contribution of platelets to the development and sequelae of coronary artery disease.