title: Platelet-activating factor in the CNS.
abstract: Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a phospholipid synthesized in a variety of cells throughout the body. Platelet-activating factor has been identified in the CNS and has a number of diverse physiological and pathological functions. It has been shown to be a modulator of many CNS processes, ranging from long-term potentiation (LTP) to neuronal differentiation. Excessive levels of PAF appear to play an important role in neuronal cell injury, such as that resulting from ischaemia, inflammation, human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) and meningitis. The beneficial effects of PAF receptor antagonists are many and give rise to possible therapeutic strategies for neurotrauma.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago Medical School, Dunedin, New Zealand.
authors.forename: K M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Maclennan
authors.forename: P F
authors.initials: PF
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: C L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Darlington
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000378:metabolism*; D010980:Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins / Q000378:metabolism; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
chemical_list: D010972:Platelet Activating Factor; D010980:Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled; C039351:platelet activating factor receptor