Studies on the hypotensive effects of platelet activating factor (PAF, 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine) in rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and dogs.

Abstract

Platelet activating factor (PAF) showed profound and long-lasting hypotensive effects in normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats, guinea pigs, rabbits and dogs. Sensitivity to PAF was different among the animal species. The magnitude and duration of the hypotensive effect were dose-dependent. Apparently the hypotensive action was unlikely caused by actions on the central or autonomic nervous systems but seemed to be mainly due to some direct action(s) on the peripheral blood vessels.