Effects of platelet activating factor on mouse oocyte fertilization in vitro

Article Abstract:

Platelet activator factor (PAF) is released by certain cells and functions as a mediator in many biological activities. One rat study found that when cell receptors with a particular affinity for PAF were blocked by other substances, ovulation did not occur. When PAF was administered, ovulation returned. PAF is also thought to increase the movement of human sperm. Some studies report that when embryos are transferred to the uterus after fertilization in the laboratory (in vitro fertilization), the embryos secrete PAF which tends to reduce the amount of circulating blood platelets, cells that are essential for blood clotting. The role of PAF in in vitro fertilization of mice was studied. When mouse sperm was exposed to PAF during the in vitro fertilization process, fertilization rates increased twofold. When substances which inhibit PAF were given, the rate of fertilization decreased. The results indicate that PAF-treated mouse sperm affected the union of the sperm and the egg and enhanced fertilization. PAF may be useful in treating certain types of human infertility. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Research, Fertilization in vitro, Human, Human fertilization in vitro, Infertility, Fertilization in vitro, Platelet activating factor

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Elevated circulating concentrations of platelet activating factor in preeclampsia

Article Abstract:

Increased levels of platelet activating factor in pregnant women may cause some of the symptoms of preeclampsia. This phospholipid can increase blood pressure and platelet aggregation, which would lead to an increase in blood clotting. These are some of the symptoms seen in women with preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of pregnancy.

Preeclampsia, Blood platelets, Platelet activation

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Scheduled cesarean delivery and the prevention of human immunodeficiency virus transmission: a survey of practicing obstetricians

Article Abstract:

A survey of 512 obstetricians found that 72% do not recommend a cesarean section to pregnant HIV-infected women if they are taking zidovudine and have undetectable blood viral levels. Most of the obstetricians use viral blood levels to decide whether a cesarean is necessary, not CD4 counts.

Care and treatment, Planning, Women, HIV infections, Pregnant women, HIV infection in women, Cesarean section

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