Abstract
Platelet stimulation by agonists is followed by changes in cytoskeletal organization that includes actin poly merization and association of the membrane skeleton (which is connected with the integrin αIIbβ3) with the underlying cyto plasmic actin filaments. The effect of orally administered ace tylsalicylic acid to healthy volunteers on incorporation of con tractile protein and β3 integrin into the cytoskeletal core of thrombin-stimulated platelets was studied. Stimulation was fol lowed by increased contractile protein and β3 incorporation into the cytoskeleton. Acetylsalicylic acid intake resulted in decreased incorporation of myosin and actin (32% and 20%, respectively), and a decrease (36%) in the association of β3 integrin with the cytoskeletal elements was evident. In conclu sion, we have shown that acetylsalicylic acid, besides the known inhibitory effect on thromboxane synthesis, promotes changes in the cytoskeletal organization of thrombin-stimulated platelets that could limit thrombus formation.