Abstract
Platelet-activating factor (alkylacetylglycerolphosphocholine; PAF) is a potent signaling phospholipid which has been found in numerous cell types in every physiological system studied to date. In reproduction, PAF is found to have a variety of roles, for example: in ovulation, sperm function, and early preimplantation development. The goal of this mini review is to highlight PAF’s synthesis, mechanism of action and its functional role in sperm physiology. PAF functions via a G protein coupled receptor mediated pathway, which ultimately increases intracellular calcium levels to enhance sperm motility required for fertilization. Exogenous PAF was also found to increase fertilization potential of spermatozoa in cases of non-male factor infertility. Finally, the mini review explores various lifestyle factors that could potentially affect PAF levels and fertility.
Publisher
Uniscience Publishers LLC