The activity of platelet activating factor-acetyl hydrolase (PAF-AH) in the salivary glands of Rhodnius prolixus

► The salivary glands and saliva of Rhodnius prolixus contain the platelet activating factor-acetyl hydrolase (PAF-AH). ► The salivary glands contain higher levels of PAF-AH before feeding. ► The PAF-AH content of salivary glands and saliva inhibits platelet aggregation induced by 2-thio-PAF. ► The inhibition of platelet aggregation probably facilitates the blood feeding processes.