Adenosine Triphosphate in the in vitro Hemolytic Tests for Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria.

Summary Adenosine triphosphate and related compounds inhibit hemolysis in the acid and acid-thrombin tests of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. The mechanism of action is related to the capability of such agents to chelate a heavy metal (Mg) which is essential for these in vitro hemolytic tests. The chelating property of these nucleotides rather than their high free energy, as usually presumed, may also explain their inhibitory action in other in vitro hemolytic systems. We thank Dr. Daniel Turner for his technical advice, and Mrs. Alma Staffin and Miss Shirley Wilcher for their technical assistance.