[Thrombocytes and aging. Protein and neuraminic acid content of thrombocytes of male donors of various age groups].

Thrombocytes of male donors of different age groups were investigated in terms of their content of N-acetylneuraminic acid (NANA) and protein. For this purpose NANA was split up hydrolytically as well as enzymatically by neuraminidase. Furthermore, the relation of NANA to protein was determined in the lysed thrombocytes of these donors. A significant increase in the protein content of platelets could be observed between group I and III (young and old donors). The relation of NANA to protein (acid hydrolysis) existing between these groups decreased significantly with growing age. Appropriate results could also be attained after having made a separate analysis in lysed thrombocytes. The results achieved allow the conclusion to be drawn that there is a changed thrombocytopoiesis in men of old age.