LOW PLATELET MONOAMINE-OXIDASE ACTIVITY IN HUMAN ALCOHOLICS

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  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 55  (3) , 181-186
Abstract
Platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO [E.C. 1.4.3.4]) activity was significantly reduced in human alcoholics compared to matched controls. A probable transitory increase in activity was observed during the abstinence phase. The low platelet MAO activity was not due to Fe deficiency or to the presence of acetaldehyde. Since a lowered MAO activity was previously found in the brains of suicide victims, especially in those with a previous history of alcohol abuse, it is suggested that low platelet MAO activity reflects a primarily weak monoaminergic system in the CNS which causes an increased vulnerability to alcohol abuse and suicidal behavior.