Background：This gene encodes a seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor for platelet-activating factor （PAF） that localizes to lipid rafts and/or caveolae in the cell membrane. PAF （1-0-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine） is a phospholipid that plays a significant role in oncogenic transformation, tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and pro-inflammatory processes. Binding of PAF to the PAF-receptor （PAFR） stimulates numerous signal transduction pathways including phospholipase C, D, A2, mitogen-activated protein kinases （MAPKs）, and the phosphatidylinositol-calcium second messenger system. Following PAFR activation, cells become rapidly desensitized and this refractory state is dependent on PAFR phosphorylation, internalization, and down-regulation. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants.
