[Collagen nonapeptide, a trap for platelets].

Biochemical methods involving chemical and enzymatic cleavage of type III collagen (characteristic of arterial subendothelium) have led to the identification of a nonapeptide common to different overlapping collagen fragments capable of interacting with platelets. This nonapeptide has been synthesized; it specifically inhibits platelet aggregation and secretion of endogenous platelet serotonin by type III collagen from which it originates. Its effect on platelet adhesion is moderate. In view of its specificity in the platelet-collagen interaction, its use as a mean of preventing thrombosis can be envisaged.