Summary

Platelet-derived microparticles (PDMPs), a procoagulant factor, are reportedly elevated in type 2 diabetes mellitus and acute coronary syndrome. The metabolic syndrome (MS) is strongly associated with cardio- and cerebrovascular disease-related atherothrombotic events. To clarify the level, distribution and correlates of PDMPs with special reference to MS, we conducted a cross-sectional study of 467 healthy Japanese volunteers without signs, symptoms, or a history of cardio- or cerebrovascular disease. They were 211 men and 256 women (median age 39 and 35 years, respectively). Using an ELISA kit and monoclonal antibodies against CD42b and CD42a (glycoprotein Ib and IX) we assayed the PDMP levels.Total cholesterol, low-density and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, remnant cholesterol, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, and traditional cardiovascular risk factors were also recorded.There was a significant difference in the level of PDMPs between men and women. The median value and the interquartile range of PDMPs was 8.3 IU/ml and 6.2 – 10.5 IU/ml and 6.8 IU/ml and 5.2 – 8.6 IU/ml, respectively, in men and women. PDMPs were significantly associated with MS criteria in men (p<0.001) and women (p=0.040). Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant odds ratio of 3.9 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.4–10.5] in men and of 4.2 [95% CI: 1.6–10.7] in the entire study population. Our results suggest that PDMPs identified by glycoprotein CD42b and CD42a are positively associated with MS.