Inhibition of platelet activation by 2-mercaptopropionylglycin in vitro and in vivo

2-mercaptopropionylglycin (2-MPG), a cell membrane penetrating thiol, was evaluated for its antithrombotic potential using in vitro and in vivo tests. 2-MPG was found to inhibit agonist-induced platelet aggregation and serotonin release as well as prostaglandin/thromboxane synthesis in platelet-rich plasma. Administration of 2-MPG to rats resulted in an inhibition of laser-induced thrombus formation in mesenteric vessels. When plasma was incubated with 2-MPG and then used for determination of various standard coagulation parameters, significant prolongation of the clotting times were observed.