Characterization of the platelet aggregation inducer and inhibitor isolated from Crocus sativus.

Bulbs of Crocus sativus variety Cartwrightianus were found to contain both a platelet aggregation inducer and inhibitor. The aggregating factor has a Mr of 42 kDa estimated by a Sephadex G75 column and SDS-polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis. It was found to lack enzymatic activity such as proteinase, esterase and acid or alkaline phosphatase. The inhibitory factor was also purified to homogeneity by different chromatographic techniques and shows a Mr of 27 kDa as it was estimated by Biogel P30 column and SDS-polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis. It was found to possess strong proteinase activity.