Elevated cholesterol reduces acetylsalicylic acid-mediated platelet acetylation.

We describe the role of plasma and platelet cholesterol content in the ability of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) to acetylate platelet proteins and inhibit platelet function. Platelet susceptibility to ASA was monitored in subjects differing in plasma total cholesterol and in suspensions of cholesterol-enriched or cholesterol-depleted platelets. Platelets from subjects with higher plasma cholesterol (>6 mmol/l) showed reduced platelet sensitivity to ASA (inhibition of platelet aggregation and thromboxane generation by 60% and 68% in 'lower-' vs.

Increased blood plasma hydrolysis of acetylsalicylic acid in type 2 diabetic patients: a role of plasma esterases.

Hydrolysis of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, aspirin), an antiplatelet drug commonly used in the prevention of stroke and myocardial infarction, seems to play a crucial role in its pharmacological action. Thirty-eight healthy volunteers and 38 type 2 diabetic patients were enrolled to test the hypothesis that the enhanced plasma degradation and lowered bioavailability of ASA in diabetic patients is associated with the attenuation of platelet response. Aspirin esterase activities were tested at pH 7.