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Platelet activating factor

Authoring team

Platelet activating factor (PAF) is a lipid-acetyl glycerol ether phosphocholine (AGEPC) derived from a cell membrane constituent, glycerophorylcholine.

It is a potent phospholipid mediator that was first described by its ability to cause platelet aggregation and dilation of blood vessels. It is now also known as a potent mediator of inflammation, allergic responses, and shock. It causes a dramatic inflammation of the air passage, resulting in asthma-like symptoms. Production of PAF is induced by toxins from bacterial fragments, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, reduced cardiac output, and shock.

Glucocorticoids may exert their anti-inflammatory role by their activation of lipocortin, a peptide inhibitor of phospholipase A2. Phospholipase A2 is involved in the early stages of PAF production.

Reference

  1. Zimmerman GA, McIntyre TM, Prescott SM, Stafforini DM. The platelet-activating factor signalling system and its regulators in syndromes of inflammation and thrombosis. Crit Care Med. 2002 May;30(5 Suppl):S294-301

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