Functions of platelet activating factor (PAF) in mammalian reproductive processes: a review

Platelet activating factor, PAF, (1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero3-phosphorylcholine) is a naturally occurring compound of membrane phospholipid. The aim of this article was to briefly review current research on the significant role of PAF in mammalian reproductive functions. The involvement of this phospholipid in the female reproductive processes may indicate that it plays an important role in ovarian follicular development, reproductive cycle and pregnancy. A full understanding of PAF functions in sperm motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction is mandatory to correctly interpret its role in the male reproductive processes. This review also addressed the importance of the mechanism regulating PAF metabolism, PAF-acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH), during the membrane fusion events associated with fertilization.