An improved method for isolating alpha granules and mitochondria from human platelets

Characterization of the platelet granule proteome: evidence of the presence of MHC1 in alpha-granules

In the present study, we performed an extensive qualitative characterization of the platelet granule proteome using subcellular fractionation followed by mass spectrometry analysis and functional annotation. Eight-hundred-and-twenty-seven proteins were identified, most of them being associated to granules and to the granule's secretory machinery. Functional pathway analysis revealed 30 pathways, including the major histocompatibility complex class 1 (MHC I) presenting antigen pathway. This pathway was of particular interest for its potential interrelation between platelets and the immune system. Key proteins belonging to this metabolic route such as β-2-microglobulin, 26S protease regulatory subunit 10B from the proteasome and proteins 1 and 2 of the transporter associated with antigen processing were shown to co-localize with von Willebrand factor in resting platelets and to be located on the plasma membrane when platelets were activated. Key proteins of the MHC1 antigen-presenting pathway are located in platelet alpha-granules. These results suggest a possible functional role of platelet granules in platelet-related immune modulation.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In this study, we described the largest dataset related to platelet granule proteins. We performed a functional pathway analysis that evidenced several expected granule-related pathways. We also highlighted the "Antigen processing and presentation" pathway that has drawn our attention. Using immunofluorescence technique, we confirmed the presence of several key proteins for antigen presentation in platelet granules. This study suggests a putative functional role of MHC1 and platelet granules in the immune modulation.

Platelet proteomics

Platelets are small cell fragments, produced by megakaryocytes, in the bone marrow. They play an important role in hemostasis and diverse thrombotic disorders. They are therefore primary targets of antithrombotic therapies. They are implicated in several pathophysiological pathways, such as inflammation or wound repair. In blood circulation, platelets are activated by several pathways including subendothelial matrix and thrombin, triggering the formation of the platelet plug. Studying their proteome is a powerful approach to understand their biology and function. However, particular attention must be paid to different experimental parameters, such as platelet quality and purity. Several technologies are involved during the platelet proteome processing, yielding information on protein identification, characterization, localization, and quantification. Recent technical improvements in proteomics combined with inter-disciplinary strategies, such as metabolomic, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics, will help to understand platelets biological mechanisms. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of the platelet proteome under different environmental conditions may contribute to elucidate complex processes relevant to platelet function regarding bleeding disorders or platelet hyperreactivity and identify new targets for antiplatelet therapy.

Mitochondrial localization of vitamin D receptor in human platelets and differentiated megakaryocytes

BACKGROUND

Like other steroid hormones, vitamin D elicits both transcriptional events and rapid non genomic effects. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) localization and mechanisms of VDR-triggered non genomic responses are still controversial. Although anticoagulant effects of vitamin D have been reported and VDR signalling has been characterized in monocytes and vascular cells, nothing is known about VDR expression and functions in human platelets, anucleated fragments of megakaryocytes which are known targets of other steroids.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

In this study we characterized the expression and cellular localization of VDR in human platelets and in a megakaryocyte lineage. Human platelets and their TPA-differentiated precursors expressed a classical 50 kDa VDR protein, which increased with megakaryocytes maturation. By biochemical fractionation studies we demonstrated the presence of the receptor in the soluble and mitochondrial compartment of human platelets, and the observation was confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy analysis. Similar localization was found in mature megakaryocytes, where besides its classical nuclear localization the receptor was evident as soluble and mitochondria resident protein.

CONCLUSIONS

The results reported here suggest that megakaryocytopoiesis and platelet activation, which are calcium-dependent events, might be modulated by a mitochondrial non genomic activity of VDR. These data open challenging future studies on VDR physiological role in platelets and more generally in mitochondria.

Lysosomal concept of platelet secretion--revisited

Certain morphological and biochemical aspects of platelet secretion are discussed. Based on own experiments and review of the literature a hypothesis is forwarded that platelet secretory granules or rather storage organelles can be viewed as secondary lysosomes participating in platelet endocytosis and exocytosis. Formation of the platelet thromboplastic activity, so called PF3, is linked to the platelet storage organelles disintegration and lypolysis during their exocytosis through the platelet plasma membrane.

Platelet mitochondrial respiratory chain function in Parkinson's disease

Reports on mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) complex I (CI) dysfunction in the substantia nigra in Parkinson's disease (PD) support the oxidative stress hypothesis in the neuropathogenesis of PD. Studies in peripheral tissue have found variable decreased CI and occasionally other complex activity suggestive of systemic impairment of MRC function in PD; however, MRC activity may be influenced by numerous variables. We conducted spectrophotometric measurements of MRC function in platelet mitochondrial preparations in 13 individuals with PD and 9 age-matched controls (CON) and have identified additional variables that may affect MRC activity. Mean CI, CIII, CIV, and citrate synthase (CS) activities were similar between PD and CON. CIII and CIV, specific and CS-corrected, activities were significantly positively correlated with CI in combined and individual group data, with the exception of CIII CS-corrected and CIV specific activities in CON and PD, respectively. CIII and CS specific activities were negatively correlated with age in CON, but varied randomly in PD. In PD, CIII specific activity was 1.4-fold higher in those with a history of environmental risk factors for PD and CIV specific activity was lower in those with a positive family history of PD [8.34 +/- 0.74 (n = 4) vs. 12.4 +/- 1.1 (SEM) min-1 mg-1; p = 0.046]. Group heterogeneity, variables affecting enzyme activity, and intrinsic properties of cells may thus contribute to conflicting data in studies of MRC function in platelets and other tissues.

Blood platelet heterogeneity: evidence for two classes of platelets in man and rat

The platelet population of man and rat can be divided into two classes of about equal size on the basis of presence/absence of an acid phosphatase which acts on para-nitrophenylphosphate (a PNPase), at pH 5. The cytochemical reaction product is in the platelet cytoplasmic matrix, without apparent association with organelles or membrane systems. We could not relate differences in staining to differences in function: all cells responded the same to activation by thrombin, ADP, or collagen, in fibrinogen binding to activated platelets, by endocytosis of fluid-phase tracers, and in internalization of latex particles. With respect to possible physiological substrates for the PNP-ase, there was no reaction product from beta-glycerophosphate, AMP, ADP, ATP, GTP, CMP, IMP, cAMP, creatine phosphate, and inositol phosphates, and the enzyme was not inhibited by 40 mM lithium. There was reaction product from tyrosine phosphate suggesting that the physiological substrate for PNP-ase is tyrosine phosphate. In rat bone marrow, megakaryocytes also were of two classes, PNPase positive and PNPase negative, suggesting that different classes of platelets arise from different classes of megakaryocytes.

Platelet alpha-granules

Platelets contain a vast number of biologically active molecules within cytoplasmic granules which are classified according to their respective distinct ultrastructures, densities and content. The alpha-granule is a unique secretory organelle in that it exhibits further compartmentalization and acquires its protein content via two distinct mechanisms: (1) biosynthesis predominantly at the megakaryocyte (MK) level (with some vestigial platelet synthesis) (e.g. platelet factor 4) and (2) endocytosis and pinocytosis at both the MK and circulating platelet levels (e.g. fibrinogen (Fg) and IgG). The currently known list of alpha-granular proteins continues to enlarge and includes many adhesive proteins (e.g. Fg, von Willebrand factor (vWf) and thrombospodin (TSP)), plasma proteins (e.g. IgG and albumin), cellular mitogens (e.g. platelet derived growth factor and TGF beta), coagulation factors (e.g. factor V) and protease inhibitors (e.g. alpha 2-macroglobulin and alpha 2-antiplasmin). More recently the inner lining of the alpha-granule unit membrane has been demonstrated to contain a number of physiologically important receptors including glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (alpha IIb beta 3) and P-selectin. The alpha-granules originate from small precursor granules which can be observed budding from the trans-Golgi network within the platelet precursor cell the MK. During MK maturation the alpha-granules become very prominent and are ultimately packaged into platelets during thrombopoiesis. The alpha-granular contents are destined for release during platelet activation at sites of vessel wall injury and thus play an important role in haemostasis, inflammation, ultimate wound repair and in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

Platelet mitochondrial function in Parkinson's disease. The Royal Kings and Queens Parkinson Disease Research Group

There is increasing evidence that defective function of the mitochondrial enzyme NADH CoQ reductase (complex I) is involved not only in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) toxicity, but also in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD). Complex I deficiency has been identified in PD substantia nigra and appears to be disease-specific and selective for the substantia nigra within the central nervous system. We describe a method for preparation of an enriched mitochondrial fraction from 60 mL blood. Using this technique, we analyzed respiratory chain function in 25 patients with PD and 15 matched control subjects. We confirm a previous report of a specific complex I deficiency in PD platelet mitochondria. Although there was a statistically significant decrease in complex I activity in the PD group compared with the control group (p = 0.005), the defect was mild (16%); it was not possible to distinguish PD from control values on an individual basis. This deficiency is not detectable in platelet whole-cell homogenates, presumably reflecting the relative insensitivity of this preparation and the limited decrease in complex I activity in PD. The presence of a mild complex I defect in platelets together with a more severe defect in substantia nigra suggests either that the pharmacological characteristics shared by these two tissues render them susceptible to a particular toxin or toxins, or that the defect is widely distributed and other biochemical events enhance the deficiency in substantia nigra.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Association of a 24-kDa GTP-binding protein, Gn24, with human platelet alpha-granule membranes

Human platelets were disrupted using nitrogen cavitation and fractionated on sucrose density gradients to permit isolation of alpha-granules, the major secretory granule of platelets. Membrane proteins prepared from intact alpha-granules by alkali extraction were separated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, transferred to nitrocellulose and the blot probed for the presence of GTP-binding proteins using [alpha-32P]GTP. Two low molecular mass GTP-binding proteins with molecular mass of 27 and 24 kDa, respectively, were identified on the alpha-granule membrane. In contrast to the 27-kDa protein which was present in significant amounts in the plasma membrane-enriched fraction, the 24-kDa protein showed a preferential association with the alpha-granule membrane. On immunoblotting with specific antiserum, the 24-kDa GTP-binding protein was found to be distinct from rab3A. To the best of our knowledge, the present report represents the first identification of low molecular mass GTP-binding proteins associated with a platelet secretory granule.

Structural and immunological properties of myosin from human platelet external and internal membranes

Our previous studies indicate that platelets contain two myosin isoforms, one of them localized in the membrane while the other in the cytoplasmic compartment. Structural and functional differences of these myosins have been characterized. In this study two platelet membrane subfractions, the external and the internal membranes, were isolated simultaneously from a crude membrane fraction and their purity was characterized using specific marker enzymes. Myosin was shown to be present in both membrane fractions and its structural and immunological properties were investigated. The electrophoretic mobilities of myosin in both membrane preparations were identical to the mobility of its cytoplasmic counterpart. Two-dimensional peptide mapping of the iodinated tryptic peptides of the myosin heavy chains indicated that at least one peptide is missing in the maps of the myosins from the external and internal membranes as compared to their soluble counterpart. Our data suggest that myosin is located in three distinct platelet compartments: cytosol, external and internal membranes. The same myosin isoform is located in the two membrane compartments, while the isoform found in the cytosol is different. The observed variations in the structure of the two isoforms may reflect differences in their respective physiological functions.

Macrophage chemotactic factor (MCF) produced by a human T cell hybridoma clone

A human T cell hybridoma clone, D6-18, producing high levels of macrophage chemotactic factor (MCF) was established by the emetine-actinomycin D selection method. MCF was found to be present not only in the culture medium but also in the cell lysate of D6-18 cells. The secretion of the MCF from D6-18 cells was effectively inhibited by disodium cromoglycate, which is an inhibitor of the degranulation of mast cells, suggesting that MCF is stored in granules. The MCF of D6-18 cells was purified from the sonicated cell lysate by ion-exchange chromatographies and high-performance liquid chromatography. The amino acid sequence of the purified MCF was revealed to be WLGREDGSE or WLGRQDGSE. The synthetic peptide WLGREDGSE showed chemotactic activity against guinea pig macrophages and human monocytes at the concentration of about 10(-8) M.

Altered structural and functional properties of myosins, from platelets of idiopathic scoliosis patients

Platelets of patients with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) have been shown to have decreased capacity to aggregate and secrete in response to certain agonists. Similarities between the contractile protein system of platelets and muscle have made the platelets a popular model for muscle disease. We attempted to characterize the function and structure of myosin in platelets of IS patients. Blood was obtained from seven IS patients and seven matched non-scoliotic healthy controls. The mean Cobb angle measurement of the IS patients was 35.4 degrees with a mean Risser sign of 2.2. Washed platelets were isolated from the blood, and the contractile proteins from the membrane and the cytosol compartments were isolated and analyzed by two-dimensional peptide mapping. As previously reported (J Biol Chem 258:9290, 1983), peptide maps of normal platelets revealed that the heavy chain of myosin located in the platelet membrane lacks one major spot relative to the cytoplasmic myosin. In IS patients the cytoplasmic myosin lacks the same peptide that is missing in the membrane myosin of normal individuals. In addition, the ATPase specific activity of the cytoplasmic myosin from IS platelets was significantly lower compared with the activity of the cytoplasmic myosin from normal platelets. These results suggest the presence of a fundamental abnormality of IS platelet contractile proteins.

Myxothiazol resistance in human mitochondria

We have investigated electron transfer activities of respiratory chain complexes in platelet mitochondria of a patient with intermittent ataxia and lactic acidosis who was previously reported to be deficient in the E1 (decarboxylase) component of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. Electron transfer from succinate to cytochrome c was normal, but the mitochondria exhibited moderately decreased (63% of control) quinol: cytochrome-c oxidoreductase activity, suggesting a defect in complex III. Consistent with some perturbation in complex III, electron flux through complex III was resistant to inhibition by myxothiazol compared to normal controls. In contrast, titration with antimycin revealed a less abnormal pattern of inhibition. The extreme specificity of myxothiazol binding at or near the quinol oxidase domain of mitochondrial cytochrome b, i.e., b-566, suggests a defect in this region of complex III which may perturb the kinetics or thermodynamics of quinol oxidation in the complex. These data suggest that the patient's illness results from a mutation in the quinol oxidase domain of mitochondrial cytochrome b (b-566).

Subcellular localization of a thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor antagonist binding site in human platelets

The subcellular localization of a binding site for the competitive thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) antagonist, 9,11-dimethylmethano-11,12-methano-16-(3-iodo-4- hydroxyphenyl)-13,14-dihydro-13-aza-15 alpha beta-omega-tetranor TXA2 ([125I]-PTA-OH), was determined. Subcellular fractions of platelets were prepared by glycerol lysis or nitrogen cavitation, and were characterized by the use of enzymatic markers specific for plasma membranes, endoplasmic reticulum (dense tubular system), mitochondria, granules, and cytosolic constituents. The Kd and density of binding sites in the subcellular fractions were determined by Scatchard analysis of equilibrium binding data. The Kd and Bmax for [125I]-PTA-OH determined in the lysates were 49 +/- 11 nM and 4.1 +/- 1.7 pmol/mg protein respectively (N = 6). The Kd values were not significantly different in any of the fractions assayed. The binding sites were coenriched (4.5 +/- 0.66 fold) with the enzymatic markers for plasma membranes (3.7 +/- 0.5 fold) and dense tubular system (2.4 +/- 0.4 fold). The binding sites were not coenriched with markers for cytoplasmic constituents, mitochondria, or granules. The ability of the TXA2/PGH2 mimetic U46619 to compete with [125I]-PTA-OH for the binding site was also determined for the various subcellular fractions. The IC50 for U46619 was 5.4 +/- 1.2 microM in the lysate, and was not significantly different in the subcellular fractions. These data suggest that the binding site is the TXA2/PGH2 receptor described previously. These data are consistent with the notion that the putative TXA2/PGH2 receptor is localized in the plasma membranes and/or the dense tubular system.

Phospholipid metabolism in human neutrophils activated by N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine. Degranulation is not required for release of arachidonic acid: studies with neutrophils and neutrophil-derived cytoplasts

Neutrophils respond to chemoattractants by aggregating, degranulating, remodelling of phospholipids and releasing arachidonic acid. To determine whether ligand-induced remodelling of phospholipids depends on redistribution of intracellular organelles (degranulation), we compared phospholipid remodelling of human neutrophils with that of neutrophil-derived cytoplasts. Cytoplasts, organelle-depleted vesicles of cytosol surrounded by plasmalemma, cannot degranulate. Without a stimulus, [3H]arachidonate was incorporated preferentially into phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylcholine (PC). Exposure of cytoplasts and neutrophils prelabelled with [3H]arachidonate or [14C]glycerol to fMet-Leu-Phe (10(-7) M) induced rapid changes in distribution of label and mass of individual phospholipids: [3H]arachidonate in phosphatidic acid (PA) increased 500% (120 s), [14C]glycerol incorporation and mass of PA approached 200% of unstimulated values, and [3H]arachidonate in PI decreased continuously; these data are compatible with activity of a PI/PA cycle. However, the mass of PI in both preparations and [14C]glycerol label in intact neutrophils increased initially (5 s), suggesting net synthesis and mobilization of more than one pool of PI. Heterogeneity of PC pools was also observed: [3H]arachidonate was lost from PC immediately upon addition of stimulus, whereas mass and [14C]glycerol values increased. Thus, net phospholipid synthesis, redistribution of arachidonate and activation of the PI/PA cycle are immediate responses of the neutrophil to receptor occupancy by chemoattractants. Furthermore, the similarity in response to fMet-Leu-Phe of neutrophils and granule-free cytoplasts indicates that these processes are independent of degranulation.

Fibrinogen Manchester. Detection of a heterozygous phenotype in the intraplatelet pool

Family members heterozygous for the congenitally abnormal fibrinogen designated fibrinogen Manchester, A alpha 16Arg----His, have previously been shown by h.p.l.c. and amino acid analysis to release a variant fibrinopeptide, [His16]fibrinopeptide A, from plasma fibrinogen after the addition of thrombin. The present study was designed to determine if the same abnormal phenotype was also present in the intraplatelet fibrinogen pool. Fresh platelets were washed in buffers containing EDTA until it could be shown that all washable plasma fibrinogen was removed. Normal platelets were then lysed by freezing and thawing to release their intracellular proteins, which were then treated with thrombin. The fibrinopeptides, cleaved from the intraplatelet fibrinogen, could be detected by an optimized h.p.l.c. technique. Quantification of the intraplatelet fibrinogen gave a result (means +/- S.D., n = 5) of 110 +/- 30 and 90 +/- 30 micrograms/10(9) platelets, when determined by h.p.l.c. quantification of fibrinopeptide B content and fibrinogen fragment E radioimmunoassay respectively. Examination of fibrinopeptides released from the platelet fibrinogen from the family with fibrinogen Manchester with the same techniques showed elution peaks in the same positions as both [His16]fibrinopeptide A and normal fibrinopeptide A. The identity of these peaks was further substantiated by analysis of the h.p.l.c. peaks by using specific radioimmunoassay to fibrinopeptide A. Our results therefore demonstrate that platelet fibrinogen expresses the heterozygous A alpha 16His phenotype. This supports the view that the A alpha chains of platelet and plasma fibrinogen are produced from a single genetic locus.

Platelet-derived collagenase inhibitor: characterization and subcellular localization

Purified human platelets were found to contain a collagenase inhibitor that is immunologically, functionally, and chromatographically identical to that produced by human skin fibroblasts. None of the other formed elements of the blood (erythrocytes, granulocytes, mononuclear cells) possessed detectable quantities of this protein. Virtually all the collagenase inhibitor contained within platelets was released following platelet activation with thrombin. Similarly, platelet activation accompanying blood clotting also resulted in the release of this protein, the ratio of plasma to serum inhibitor levels being approximately equal to 0.5. When platelets were subjected to subcellular fractionation, essentially all of the platelet-associated collagenase inhibitor was found to be located in the alpha-granule. Studies with radiolabeled inhibitor failed to detect uptake of inhibitor by platelets. Furthermore, immunologically reactive protein of similar quantity to that found in platelets was identified in human megakaryocyte lysates. Thus, the data suggest that the collagenase inhibitor is endogenously produced and stored within platelet alpha-granules. The platelet-derived collagenase inhibitor was antigenically identical to the collagenase inhibitor from human skin fibroblasts in double immunodiffusion and, like its fibroblast counterpart, inhibited collagenase on a 1:1 stoichiometric basis. When subjected to several of the chromatographic procedures utilized to purify the fibroblast protein, the platelet inhibitor behaved in an indistinguishable manner. Platelet factor 4, previously reported to be a collagenase inhibitor, was found to be immunologically unrelated to the platelet-derived collagenase inhibitor. Furthermore, platelet factor 4 displayed no collagenase inhibitory activity. Although the function of platelet-derived collagenase inhibitor is unknown, such a protein released by activated platelets may serve to regulate collagen turnover during the early stages of the inflammatory process.

Optimal techniques for the immunocytochemical demonstration of beta-thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4, and fibrinogen in the alpha granules of unstimulated platelets

The distribution of beta-thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4, and fibrinogen in unstimulated platelets was investigated by several immunocytochemical techniques. All three substances were found to be localized in the majority of platelet alpha granules either by immunoperoxidase methods on saponin-treated platelets or by colloidal gold immunoconjugates on frozen thin sections. The optimal conditions for preparing and fixing platelets for immunocytochemistry were also determined. Platelets obtained from blood dripped directly into fixative or anticoagulated blood were compared systematically with respect to shape. Temperature was found to be the most important variable. Immediately fixed platelets were generally disc-shaped, regardless of the temperature of the fixative. Reducing the temperature of blood (stored with anticoagulant) before fixation resulted in more swollen and fewer disc-shaped platelets. However, if the blood was mixed with an anticoagulant and maintained at 37 degrees C for 1 h before fixation, the same number of disc-shaped platelets were present as in samples from blood fixed immediately. The intracellular localization of beta-thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4, and fibrinogen was consistent regardless of platelet preparatory procedure, but several technical problems were encountered with respect to plasma membrane labelling when control experiments were analysed. Immediately fixed, non-permeabilized platelet plasma membranes were always labelled, no matter which control substances or immunoperoxidase markers were used. However, when platelets were washed by centrifugation, the plasma membranes were negative. Exposure to saponin markedly diminished labelling of the plasma membranes. Optimal techniques for the immunocytochemical demonstration of these alpha granule proteins in platelets are presented in this report.

Isolation and partial characterization of platelet alpha-granule membranes

Porcine alpha-granules, prepared by a modification of pre-existing methods, were found to be essentially homogeneous by transmission electron microscopy. Freeze-fractured samples of isolated granules revealed numerous intramembranous particles on the EF (exoplasmic fracture) surface and to a lesser extent on the PF (protoplasmic fracture) surface whereas the PS (protoplasmic) surface was relatively smooth. The granules appear to be sealed, as evidenced by: a) the retention of their electron dense core material; b) the inability of impermeant labels to react with the granule contents, and c) the finding that the intragranular proteins are refractory to mild hydrolysis by externally added proteases. Membranes were isolated by alkali extraction of the granules and used for biochemical characterization. Approximately 87% of the protein, but only insignificant amounts of phospholipid were removed by this procedure, which yielded membrane vesicles devoid of the dense core. The membranes contain one major and several minor polypeptides of molecular weights ranging from 28,000 to 230,000, as determined by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The major polypeptide contains carbohydrate residues. The exposure of specific proteins on the cytoplasmic surface of the granule membrane was determined by a combination of surface-specific labeling and proteolysis of intact granules, followed by membrane isolation and analysis. In sealed granules, only a limited number of bands are modified by the reagents whereas most of them are affected following granule lysis, indicating asymmetry in their transmembrane disposition. The fraction eluted by alkali extraction was also analyzed and found to contain nine major polypeptides of molecular weights ranging from 230,000 to 43,000. These are compared to the weights of the macromolecules believed to be secreted from alpha-granules, as determined by radioimmunological techniques.

Cyclic AMP-binding proteins in human blood platelets detected by photoaffinity labelling

Cyclic AMP inhibits platelet aggregation induced by physiological agents. 8 Azido [32P]cyclic AMP (N3 cyclic AMP) has been utilized as a photoaffinity probe to define the cyclic AMP-binding proteins present in unperturbed human platelets and their subcellular fractions. Specificity of cyclic AMP binding was determined by contrasting binding in the presence and absence of excess unlabelled cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP and 5'-AMP. Binding was unaffected by 5'-AMP and obliterated by cyclic AMP. Four major species of binding proteins, 49 000, 42 000, 39 000, 37 000, were obtained in all platelet fractions (crude homeogenate, cytosol, membranes and granules). Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of platelet cytosol resolved the major molecular weight species into 15 specific cyclic AMP binding proteins of four molecular weight classes differing by charge density. These studies suggest that platelets contain an array of specific cyclic AMP-binding proteins which may function in hemostatic regulation.

Ultrastructural study on the release reaction of the platelet. Release II

The ultrastructural changes of the platelets stimulated by release inducers II such as thrombin, collagen, and latex particles were studied to compare the differences in morphology of release I and II. The characteristics of platelets in response to thrombin were the decrease in number of alpha-granules and marked dilation of the open canalicular system containing fibrin preceded by the disappearance of very dense granules. In the platelets in response to collagen or latex, the release of alpha-granules was initiated after taking the particles into the open canalicular system. In all of the cases, the amount of microfibrils was seen in the cytoplasm, while contraction wave of the microtubules was rare in the cytoplasm during the release and uptake of particles. Accordingly, the release of very dense granules seems to be followed by that of alpha-granules. It is suggested that the microfibrils play a more important role than the microtubules in the release II as well as release I. Furthermore, the contents of alpha-granules may be discharged via the open canalicular system on the release II by thrombin, collagen or latex particles.

Activation of coagulation factor V by a platelet protease

Factor V must be converted to Factor V(a) in order to bind to a high affinity platelet surface site and participate in prothrombin activation. Osterud et al. (10) presented data that suggested that human platelets contain an activated form of Factor V and a Factor V activator. We find that the Factor V released when platelets are disrupted by freezing and thawing or sonication is activated 3- to 10-fold by thrombin as determined by coagulation assay and is therefore stored as the relatively inactive procofactor rather than in the active form Factor V(a). We incubated purified Factor V, which had a specific activity of 140+/-30 U/mg, with Factor V-deficient frozen and thawed platelets (10(9) platelets/ml) obtained from a patient with Factor V deficiency. The specific activity of the Factor V increased to a maximum of 740+/-240 U/mg (mean+/-SD of three experiments). When this partially activated Factor V was incubated with thrombin its specific activity increased further to 1,440+/-280 U/mg, which is similar to the activity of Factor V activated with thrombin alone (1,540+/-60 U/mg). The platelet Factor V activator is not inhibited by dansyl arginine-4-ethylpiperidine amide, 93 muM, indicating that it is not thrombin. When thrombin-stimulated platelets, to which dansyl arginine-4-ethylpiperidine amide had been added to inhibit the further action of thrombin, were incubated with (125)-labeled Factor V, there was no detectable proteolysis of the Factor V molecule. Our failure to detect activation of Factor V under these conditions suggests that <4% of the platelet protease is released by thrombin. Subcellular fractionation of platelets indicates that the platelet protease that activates Factor V is in the soluble fraction. When Factor V(a) formed by the action of platelet protease is incubated with platelets, peptides with M(r) = 105,000, 87,000, and 78,000 bind to the platelet surface. All three radiolabeled peptides are displaced from platelets by unlabeled Factor V(a) formed by the action of thrombin. The stoichiometry of binding suggests that the 105,000-dalton peptide is associated with either an 87,000- or a 78,000-dalton peptide. The 78,000-dalton peptide binds with greater affinity and probably accounts for the bulk of the activity of Factor V(a) in coagulation assays. Whether or not the platelet protease serves to activate Factor V before thrombin formation during normal hemostasis remains to be determined.

Initial characterization of human platelet mepacrine-labelled granules isolated using a short metrizamide gradient

A method for the purification of human platelet mepacrine-labelled granules is described. Characterization of these isolated granules allowed them to be identified as the serotonin storage organelles or dense bodies. Each step of the purification procedure has been controlled in order to obtain a minimum of leakage of the granule content during initial isolation of the platelets from the blood, the platelet washing procedures, and platelet lysis and the subcellular separation. A key step in the procedure was the centrifugation of the labelled granules across a short, discontinuous metrizamide gradient. The pellet of isolated mepacrine-fluorescent granules consisted almost entirely of granules with the typical appearance of dense bodies, as shown by electron microscopy, and was relatively free from membranes and other granule populations as evaluated by the presence of the different markers (tritiated lectin, beta-glucuronidase, monoamine oxidase, platelet factor 4). The method is simple, reproducible and allows the highest enrichment in dense bodies obtained hitherto with human platelets: x 177 in calcium and x 115 in [14C]serotonin after fractionation of [14C]serotonin-labelled whole platelets. Functional studies performed with the isolated granules showed that they rapidly accumulated [14C]serotonin.

Subcellular localization and secretion of factor V from human platelets

Factor V, a plasma protein cofactor necessary for optimal conversion of prothrombin to thrombin, is also present in considerable concentration in blood platelets (9.9 units per 10(9) platelets). Subcellular fractionation by two methods has localized factor V in the alpha granules of unstimulated platelets. ADP and epinephrine cause release of 4.6% and 6.4%, respectively, of the total factor V, a process completely inhibited by cyclooxygenase alkylation by aspirin. In contrast, collagen causes release of 25% of platelet factor V, a process only partially suppressed by aspirin. Secretion of factor V depends on the availability of metabolic energy, because antimycin A, an inhibitor of aerobic metabolism, and 2-deoxyglucose, an inhibitor of anaerobic glycolysis, together almost totally inhibited the secretion of factor V induced by collagen. The data establish that factor V is not normally available on unstimulated platelets but can be secreted from alpha granules upon stimulation with physiological agents such as ADP, epinephrine, and collagen. Because factor V is known to serve as a receptor for factor Xa, the exposure of factor V on platelets consequent to release would accelerate the process of blood coagulation.

Biochemical studies of two patients with the gray platelet syndrome. Selective deficiency of platelet alpha granules

The biochemistry of platelets from two unrelated patients with the gray platelet syndrome, a deficiency of platelet alpha-granules, has been evaluated. Ultrastructural studies of their platelets revealed the number of alpha-granules to be less than 15% of normal, whereas the number of dense bodies was within normal limits. Platelets from both patients had severe deficiencies of platelet factor 4 and beta-thromboglobulin (less than 10% of normal). Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed a marked deficiency of thrombin-sensitive protein in both patients. Analysis of the platelet-derived growth factor in one patient showed it was also markedly reduced. Levels of lysosomal enzymes, adenine nucleotides, serotonin, and catalase, and conversion of arachidonic acid by the lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase enzymes, were within normal limits. The results provide important evidence to define the contents of alpha-granules and to differentiate these contents from the contents of lysosomal granules, dense bodies, and peroxisomes. Functional studies of these platelets showed deficiencies in ADP, thrombin, and collagen aggregation. The results suggest that alpha-granules or their contents make a contribution to normal platelet aggregation.

Intracellular localization of palmitoyl-CoA hydrolase and palmitoyl-CoA synthetase in human blood platelets and liver

The intracellular localization studies of human blood platelets by sucrose gradient and differential centrifugation, showed that palmitoyl-CoA hydrolase was mainly localized in the cytosol fraction. However, a localization also in the mitochondrial fraction seems possible as disruption of platelets by the French press and nitrogen decompression techniques resulted in mitochondrial damage. In human liver the palmitoyl-CoA hydrolase was localized in the mitochondrial and microsomal fractions. Palmitoyl-CoA synthetase was localized in the mitochondrial and microsomal fractions in both platelets and liver. The possible physiological implications of these differences, and the finding of a very high ratio of palmitoyl-CoA hydrolase/palmitoyl-CoA synthetase in platelets compared with liver, are discussed.

Subcellular distribution of the different platelet proteins phosphorylated on exposure of intact platelets to ionophore A23187 or to prostaglandin E1. Possible role of a membrane phosphopolypeptide in the regulation of calcium-ion transport

Exposure of 32P-labelled human platelets to ionophore A23187 results in an increased incorporation of 32P into polypeptides with apparent mol.wts. of 47 000 (P47) and 20 000 (P20), whereas exposure to prostaglandin E1 results in increased labelling of polypeptides with apparent mol.wts. of 24 000 (P24) and 22 000 (P22) [Haslam, Lynham & Fox (1979) Biochem. J. 178, 397-406]. Labelled platelets that had been incubated with ionophore A23187 or prostaglandin E1 were sonicated and rapidly separated into three fractions by differential centrifugation. Electron microscopy and measurement of marker enzymes indicated that the 1300-19 000 gav. particulate fraction was enriched in granules, mitochondria and plasma membranes, that the 19 000-90 000 gav. particulate fraction was enriched in both intracellular and plasma membranes and that the 90 000 gav. supernatant contained only soluble proteins. 32P-labelled phosphopolypeptide P47 was present almost exclusively in the 90 000 gav. supernatant, whereas phosphopolypeptide P20 was largely dephosphorylated under fractionation conditions that protected other phosphopolypeptides. 32P-labelled phosphopolypeptide P24 was enriched in both particulate fractions, but particularly in the 19 000-90 000 gav. fraction, and may therefore be present in both the intracellular and plasma membranes. Phosphopolypeptide P22 appeared to be similarly distributed. Both particulate fractions were capable of the ATP-dependent oxalate-stimulated uptake of Ca2+. When the 19 000-90 000 gav. membrane fraction was prepared from platelets that had been incubated with ionophore A23187, active uptake of Ca2+ did not occur, but when this fraction was isolated from platelets that had been exposed to prostaglandin E1, uptake of Ca2+ was significantly greater than observed with the corresponding membranes from control platelets. It is suggested that phosphorylation of polypeptide P24 (or P22) by a cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase may promote the active transport of Ca2+ out of the platelet cytosol.

Isolation of human platelet plasma membranes with polylysine beads

Human platelet plasma membranes were isolated with polylysine beads according to the technique developed by Jacobson and Branton (1977, Science [Wash. D. C.] 195:302--304). Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed surface iodination revealed that ninefold greater 125I specific activity was associated with the membranes isolated on beads than with whole platelets. Enrichment in the bead membrane preparation of the activities of membrane marker enzymes, bis(p-nitrophenyl)phosphate phosphodiesterase and Na,K-ATPase, was 8.0 and 4.4, respectively. Contamination with enzymes of other organelles, cytochrome oxidase and beta-glucuronidase, was relatively low as compared with membranes isolated by sucrose gradient centrifugation. Analysis by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that a full complement of surface glycoproteins was present on the membranes isolated with polylysine beads. The polylysine bead technique is a rapid, reproducible and efficient method for the preparation of relatively pure platelet plasma membranes.

Phospholipase activities in subcellular fractions of human platelets

A homogenate of human platelets was fractionated by zonal ultracentrifugation into membranes, various granules and mitochondria. The membrane fraction was composed of two populations. The first, which represented 75% of the proteins, was rich in plasma membranes; the second, which represented the remaining 25%, was rich in microsomal membranes. Lysophospholipase was essentially localised in the cytosol. Phospholipase A1 which was only weakly bound to membranes, was mostly found in the soluble fraction (75%); the remainder was located in the plasma membranes and the mitochondria. Two-thirds of the phospholipase A2 was found in the particulate fractions.

Further characterization of calcium-accumulating vesicles from human blood platelets

Human blood platelets are capable of removing Ca2+ from the cytoplasm by means of an active, ATP-dependent and cyclic AMP-stimulated transport system. Calcium-accumulating vesicles are obtained by sonicating platelets. On density gradient centrifugation, this activity is found in the heavier of two membrane fractions. Concentrated in this fraction are also the Ca2+-stimulated Mg2+-ATPase and glucose-6-phosphatase, believed to be a marker for internal membrane systems. When the isolated vesicles are loaded with Ca2+, a third band separates from the two vesicular fractions in the density gradient. This band C contains virtually all the Ca2+-accumulating activity. Evidence that this activity is due to an active uptake and not to surface binding or adsorption is presented. Whereas electron microscopy does not reveal striking differences between active and inactive fractions, differences in protein composition are revealed by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Furthermore, this band contains an enzyme system which converts arachidonic acid to malondialdehyde and therefore this fraction must be the site of prostaglandin synthesis. Membranes prepared by loading platelets with glycerol, followed by osmotic lysis are unable to accumulate calcium. In sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis such membranes show significant differences in their protein pattern as compared to the actively Ca2+-accumulating vesicular membranes of band C. All preparations with Ca2+-accumulating activity also contain markers for plasma membranes and the question whether this activity is due exclusively to an intracellular structural element equivalent to the sarcoplasmic reticulum of muscle or whether an "extrusion pump" expelling Ca2+ to the outside of the cell is also involved, cannot yet be ;nswered.