Abstract
Plasma levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline, platelet cyclic-AMP (cAMP) content, platelet aggregation, platelet release of beta-thromboglobulin, and platelet factor 4 and serum content of thromboxane B2(TXB2) and 6-keto-PGF1.alpha. were measured in 12 healthy male volunteers (age 38-72, mean 54.2 years) who were tested at rest and immediately after five min light cycle exercise. The plasma levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline increased significantly after exercise (P < 0.01). The platelet cAMP level was not changed by exercise. The functional capacity of platelet beta-adrenoceptors, determined as cAMP production after beta-adrenoceptor stimulation in vitro, decreased highly significantly after exercise in all 12 volunteers (P < 0.01). No alteration was observed in platelet aggregation induced by adrenaline or in platelet release of beta-thromboglobulin or platelet factor 4. No change was observed in the serum levels of TXB2 and 6-keto-PGF1.alpha.. In conclusion: light cycle exercise results in a decreased functional capacity of platelet beta-adrenoceptors, but has no effect on platelet aggregation or platelet release. This might indicate a concomitant and equal decreased functional capacity of platelet alpha-adrenoceptors.