Fosfólípasa

Fosfólípasa is a group of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of phospholipids. These enzymes play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including cell membrane structure and dynamics, signal transduction, and the breakdown of cellular components. There are several different classes of phospholípases, distinguished by the specific bond within the phospholipid molecule that they cleave.

Phospholipase A1 (PLA1) hydrolyzes the ester bond at the sn-1 position of a phospholipid, releasing a free fatty acid and a lysophospholipid. Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) cleaves the ester bond at the sn-2 position, yielding another free fatty acid and a lysophospholipid. PLA2 is particularly important as it releases arachidonic acid, a precursor to various signaling molecules like prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

Phospholipase C (PLC) hydrolyzes the bond between the diacylglycerol and the phosphate group, releasing diacylglycerol and a phosphorylated head group. Diacylglycerol is a second messenger involved in cell signaling pathways. Phospholipase D (PLD) cleaves the phosphodiester bond adjacent to the phosphate group, releasing phosphatidic acid and an alcohol. Phosphatidic acid also has signaling roles.

These enzymes are found in a wide range of organisms, from bacteria to mammals, and their activity is tightly regulated within cells. Dysregulation of phospholípase activity can be implicated in various diseases, including inflammatory conditions and cancer.