Effects of choline on hemorheological properties and NO metabolism of human erythrocytes

Abstract

Purpose of the study: To determine the effects of choline on red blood cell membrane properties and NO metabolism.

Material and methods: Aliquots of venous blood from eleven healthy subjects were incubated in vitro with choline concentrations 10⁻¹⁰ to 10⁻³ M. The following parameters were determined: erythrocyte deformability, aggregation and membrane lipid fluidity, plasma K⁺, Na⁺, Ca²⁺, total blood haemoglobin and methemoglobin concentrations. Additionally, plasma and intra‐erythrocyte nitrites concentrations were measured.

Results: Choline increases erythrocyte deformability at lower shear stresses, decreases erythrocyte aggregation, increases membrane lipid fluidity, and decreases of Na⁺ plasma concentrations. We also find an increase of nitrites concentration both in the plasma and in the intra‐erythrocyte compartment.

Conclusion: Choline induces changes on erythrocyte membrane properties, Na⁺ plasma concentration, and NO metabolites concentrations.