Role of Cytosolic Phospholipase $A_2$in Cell Injury

Phospholipase A$_2$(PLA$_2$) comprise a family of enzymes that hydrolyze the acyl bond at the sn-2 position of phospholipids to generate free fatty acids including arachidonic acid and lysophospholipids. Distinct forms of PLA$_2$are involved in digestion, inflammation, and intercelluar-and intracellular signaling pathways. The released arachidonic acid, which is enriched at the sn-2 position, serves as the precursor for eicosanoids such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. During oxygenation of arachidonic acid to hydroxy endoperoxide, reactive oxygen radicals are generated. On the other hand, lysophospholipids increase membrane fluidity and can be cytotoxic with its detergent-like action. Thus, the biochemical features of the products of PLA$_2$activity suggest that PLA$_2$may be implicated in many destructive cellular processes.