Release of platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine by plasma taken from patients during and between migraine attacks

Abstract
The pathophysiology of the fall of plasma 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) during a migraine attack was investigated. Platelets from normal subjects were incubated with 14C-labeled 5-HT, and the release of 5-HT was measured following exposure of these platelets to plasma taken from migraine patients during an attack or at headache-free intervals. Plasma taken during attacks released significantly more 5-HT. Apparently factor(s) which can cause 5-HT release from normal platelets exist in the serum during migraine attacks. The identification of this factor may be important.