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Updated: May 8, 2026

LC-MS Analysis of Human Platelets as a Platform for Studying Mitochondrial Metabolism
Published on: April 4, 2016
Biosynthesis of platelet-activating factor and its 1O-acyl analogue by liver fat-storing cells
Background/Aims:
Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is an important mediator of proinflammatory cell-to-cell interactions with powerful vasoactive properties. We evaluated the biosynthesis of PAF by cultured human fat-storing cells (FSC), liver-specific pericytes involved in the inflammatory and fibrogenic process of liver tissue.
Methods:
PAF synthesis was evaluated by measuring [3H]acetate incorporation under basal conditions and upon stimulation with A23187, thrombin, and lipopolysaccharide. Further analysis of PAF species synthesized by FSC was performed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Results:
All stimuli induced a significant increase of basal PAF synthesis by FSC. Further analysis showed that > 50% of the newly synthesized PAF species was secreted whereas the remaining fraction was cell-associated. PAF species produced by FSC were able to induce aggregation of rabbit washed platelets with an effectiveness correspondent to 10(-9) mol/L authentic PAF. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis revealed that a large percentage (74%) of PAF-like lipids synthesized by FSC consisted of 1O-acyl PAF. Finally, stimulation of FSC with PAF caused an increase in cytosolic free calcium, thus suggesting a possible involvement of this pericyte in the well-known effects of PAF on portal pressure.
Conclusions:
These results expand the available knowledge concerning the role of PAF in conditions characterized by extensive activation and damage of the liver sinusoidal endothelium and decreased hepatic scavenger activity.
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