Beneficial effect of persimmon leaves and bioactive compounds on thrombosis

The effects of ethanol extracts of persimmon leaves (EPL) and the major flavonoids catechin, epicatechin, and epicatechin gallate on blood coagulation and platelet aggregation were evaluated. Anticoagulant activities were examined by monitoring the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and the prothrombin time (PT). EPL significantly prolonged PT and aPTT. The aPTT was significantly increased in the presence of catechin, epicatechin, and epicatechin gallate, compared with controls. In order to determine the antiplatelet activity, arachidonic acid (AA), collagen, and adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation were examined. PL and the major flavonoids significantly reduced AA-induced platelet aggregation, although they did not significantly affect ADP and collagen-induced platelet aggregation, compared with controls. EPL and the major flavonoids significantly inhibited serotonin, thromboxane A2, and soluble P-selectin generation, compared with controls. PL has potential for prevention and improvement of thrombosis by inhibiting blood coagulation and platelet activation.