Q94 is not a selective modulator of proteinase-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) in platelets

Abstract

Thrombin is potent platelet activator, acting through proteinase-activated receptors -1 and -4 (PAR1 and PAR4). Of these, PAR-1 is activated more rapidly and by lower thrombin concentrations. Consequently, PAR-1 has been extensively investigated as a target for anti-platelet drugs to prevent myocardial infarction. Q94 has been reported to act as an allosteric modulator of PAR1, potently and selectively inhibiting PAR1-Gαq coupling in multiple cell lines, but its effects on human platelet activation have not been previously studied. Platelet Ca2+ signalling, integrin αIIbβ3 activation and α-granule secretion were monitored following stimulation by a PAR1-activating peptide (PAR1-AP). Although Q94 inhibited these responses, its potency was low compared to other PAR1 antagonists. In addition, αIIbβ3 activation and α-granule secretion in response to other platelet activators was also inhibited with similar potency. Finally, in endothelial cells, Q94 did not inhibit PAR1-dependent Ca2+ signalling. Our data suggest that Q94 may have PAR1-independent off-target effects in platelets, precluding its use as a selective PAR1 allosteric modulator.