[The modification of the biosynthesis and effect of thromboxane A2 and prostacyclin by trapidil (Rocornal)]

Abstract

The influence of the antianginal drug trapidil on the biosynthesis of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and/or prostacyclin (PGI2), metabolites of arachidonic acid (AA), was investigated in rabbit and human platelet rich plasma (PRP), in homogenates of rabbit spleen and of rat lung and in aortic preparations of rats and rabbits, respectively. Trapidil showed a marked inhibition of the AA-induced aggregation and TXA2 biosynthesis in rabbit and human PRP. The TXA2 inhibition by trapidil was not demonstrable in damaged platelets and seems to require intact cells. In homogenates of rat lungs, trapidil remained without effect on the TXA2 and PGI2 synthesis. In rabbit spleen homogenates the drug induced an inhibition of the formation of both AA metabolites. In contrast to Japanese authors we could not observe any increase in PGI2 release in rat aortic preparation. The PGI2 release from isolated perfused guinea pigs hearts was enhanced; on the other hand, the PGI2 efflux from rabbit hearts remained unchanged. The antiaggregatory effect of PGI2 on the ADP-induced aggregation was strengthened by trapidil, showing an overadditive effect in rabbit PRP. The aggregation inducing effect of the prostaglandin endoperoxide analog U-46619 was inhibited by trapidil. A possible clinical significance of the inhibitions of the synthesis and effect of TXA2 for therapy of ischemic heart disease is discussed.