The contribution of platelet-activating factor to allergen-induced eosinophil infiltration and bronchial hyperresponsiveness.

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is an ether-linked phospholipid having a range of biological properties of relevance to our understanding of the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma and related allergic diseases. In particular the ability of PAF to induce eosinophil activation and recruitment has received considerable attention. Since in experimental animals PAF and allergen-induced eosinophil infiltration are dependent upon platelet activation, it is suggested that platelet activation may be an important component of the allergic process. The ability of PAF antagonists to inhibit various aspects of the allergic response has been demonstrated in a number of animal models but not all of them have been extended into man.