In vivo inhibition of megakaryocyte and platelet production by platelet factor 4 in mice.

The in vivo effect of human platelet factor 4 (PF4) on murine megakaryocytopoiesis and thrombopoiesis was studied. Administration of PF4 induced a dose-dependent decrease in the numbers of megakaryocytes and their progenitor cells (CFU-MK), continuing for 1 week after the injection. However, the size of megakaryocytes and their colonies was not changed following PF4 injection. Platelet levels were significantly decreased at days 3-4. The number of CFU-GM was decreased at days 1-2. White blood cells and hemoglobin were unaffected by PF4. These data indicate that PF4 inhibits megakaryocyte and platelet production in vivo by acting on the early stage of megakaryocyte development.