title: Decreased density of peripheral benzodiazepine binding sites on platelets of currently drinking, but not abstinent alcoholics.
abstract: Using the isoquinoline carboxamide derivative, PK 11195 as selective ligand, the binding properties of peripheral benzodiazepine binding sites were compared on platelets of alcoholics and non-alcoholic, healthy controls. When compared to controls, alcoholics during prolonged ethanol consumption show a significant reduction in the density of platelet [3H]PK 11195 binding sites. However, following abstention from alcohol, the density of these sites is similar to controls. These data suggest that a reduction in the density of peripheral benzodiazepine binding sites on platelets may be a biochemical index of prolonged ethanol use and indicate a possible role for these sites in mediating the chronic effects of alcohol.
authors.affiliation: Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Verdun, Québec, Canada.
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Suranyi-Cadotte
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Lafaille
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dongier
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dumas
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Quirion
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000097:blood*; D001665:Binding Sites; D001792:Blood Platelets / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007546:Isoquinolines; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A / Q000097:blood / Q000187:drug effects*; D013695:Temperance
chemical_list: D007546:Isoquinolines; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A; C037850:PK 11195