Role of endogenous platelet‐activating factor in caerulein‐induced acute pancreatitis in rats: Protective effects of a PAF‐antagonist

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Abstract
The role of endogenous platelet‐activating factor (PAF) in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis was investigated by determining whether CV‐6209, a selective PAF‐antagonist, confers protection against caerulein‐induced acute pancreatitis in rats. Continuous intravenous infusion of caerulein (5 μg/kg x h) induced time‐dependent increase in serum pancreatic enzymes, pancreatic weight, and protein content of the pancreas, and produced histologic evidence of acute pancreatitis. Pretreatment with CV‐6209 (1 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the elevation of serum pancreatic enzymes, pancreatic weight, and protein content of the pancreas. Caerulein‐induced tissue oedema and recruitment of leucocytic cells were markedly ameliorated with CV‐6209. Platelet‐activating factor may be released endogenously and may play a role during acute pancreatitis.