The Effects Of Chemical Alterations Of The Benzoic Acid Nucleus On Platelet Function And Prostacyclin Activity In The Arterial Wall

Abstract

The effects of a series of benzoic acid derivatives (ASA analogs) on prostacyclin (PGI2) synthesis by rabbit aorta rings and on human platelet function were examined to determine if antiplatelet activity could be separated from anti-PGI2 activity.Rings of rabbit aorta were incubated with or without drugs in Tris 0.05 M, pH 7.5 for 6 m at room temperature (R.T.). Supernatant was then transferred to platelet-rich plasma incubated at 37°C for 3 m. ADP was added 60 s later and aggregation was measured and compared to controls. Rings were also incubated with 14C-arachidonic acid (14C-AA) for 60 m at R.T. in Tris with or without drugs. Products were extracted and measured by radio-T.L.C. along with known standards. Platelet aggregation and release of ATP were measured using a ChronoLog Lumi aggregometer. The effects of these agents on PGI2 activity were similar to their effects on platelet aggregation. ASA however did not exhibit the marked inhibitory potency that it had on the second phase of platelet aggregation and ATP release. Changing the 2-acetoxy group of A.S.A. to a 2-acetyl or 3-propionyloxy resulted in a loss of inhibitory activity in both systems. 2-Propionyloxy substitution resulted in a similar spectrum of activity to ASA. The effects of these agents on the metabolism of 14C-AA by rabbit aorta rings generally confirmed the bioassay results although some of the agents had novel effects on blood vessel arachidonic acid metabolism.Despite potential species differences, this study demonstrates an inability to separate antiplatelet and anti-PGI2 effects with this series of benzoic acid derivatives. Further study of the effects of these agents on the metabolism of 14C-AA by rings of rabbit aorta may lead to a better understanding of PGI2 formation.