▪ Abstract Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a phospholipid with potent, diverse physiological
actions, particularly as a mediator of inflammation. The synthesis, transport, and degradation
of PAF are tightly regulated, and the biochemical basis for many of these processes has
been elucidated in recent years. Many of the actions of PAF can be mimicked by structurally
related phospholipids that are derived from nonenzymatic oxidation, because such
compounds can bind to the PAF receptor. This process circumvents much of the biochemical …

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is the commonly used name for a group of potent biologically
active, ether-linked phospholipids, the alkylacetylglycerophospho cholines. Following the
identification of the chemical structure of P AF in 1979, much progress has been made in our
understanding of these phospholipid medi ators. This is particularly true from the points of
view of their molecular structural requirements for expression of biological activity, their
biosynthesis and cata bolism, their diverse range of biological activities, evidence for their …