The effect of T-2 toxin on human platelets

Human platelets were incubated with T-2 toxin, the most toxic component of Fusarium fungi, at doses of 5 to 500 μg/10⁹ platelets. A dose-related inhibition of platelet aggregation and release of dense bodies (these consist mainly of serotonin-containing granules) were observed. A change in membrane permeability in the absence of shape changes was also demonstrated by a heavy metal impregnation technique. There was no correlated inhibition of thromboxane synthesis or significant alterations in platelet calcium content. The microtubular system was also unaffected. Suppressed platelet aggregation may contribute to the lethal hemorrhagic phenomenon associated with intoxication by fusarial toxins in man and animals.