Platelet-activating factor: a case for its role in CNS function and brain injury.

In the past 10 years evidence has been accumulating on the synthesis, distribution, regulation and function of platelet-activating factor (PAF) and related phospholipids in the brain. Clearly, much needs to be done to establish specific biological functions for PAF in the brain and in particular its role in disease processes. The cellular elements responsible for PAF synthesis and release in vivo is not yet clear nor has it been established whether PAF has a role in chronic pathological conditions. Hopefully, this 'decade of the brain' will lead us to better insights on these issues.