THE EFFECT OF FORSKOLIN ON BLOOD-FLOW, PLATELET METABOLISM, AGGREGATION AND ATP RELEASE

Forskolin, a diterpene obtained from coleus forskolii, is a potent cAM P stimulator. We have evaluated the effects of forskolin on blood flow , platelet aggregation and metabolism. It was found that forskolin has a dose dependant vasorelaxing effect in an in vivo sheep model, when infused intraarterially. Furthermore forskolin, in a dose-dependent fa shion reduced whole blood platelet aggregation and ATP release. Pretre atment of PTFE grafts with Forskolin significantly reduced platelet co nsumption 3 hours postoperatively and on the first postoperative day. The overall platelet metabolism, measured by a micracalorimetric techn ique after treatment with forskolin in vitro and ex-vivo postoperative ly was significantly increased. In conclusion: Forskolin affects blood flow and platelet parameters favourably in the setting of occlusive a rterial disease and reconstructive arterial surgery.