PLA2G4B

PLA2G4B, also known as Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 Group IVB, is a gene encoding an enzyme belonging to the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) superfamily. Specifically, the enzyme it encodes is a calcium-dependent cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2).

cPLA2 enzymes, including the protein product of the PLA2G4B gene, catalyze the hydrolysis of membrane phospholipids, specifically at the sn-2 position, releasing arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is a precursor to various lipid mediators, including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes, which play critical roles in inflammation, pain, and other physiological processes.

While PLA2G4A is the better-studied member of the Group IVA cPLA2 family and is widely considered the primary cPLA2, PLA2G4B is thought to have a more specialized role. Research suggests PLA2G4B may be involved in specific cellular processes or localized to particular tissues, although its exact functions and regulation are still under investigation. The enzyme's activity can be regulated by various factors, including calcium concentration, phosphorylation, and protein-protein interactions.

Variations in the PLA2G4B gene sequence have been associated with susceptibility to certain diseases and conditions. Further research is ongoing to fully elucidate the role of PLA2G4B in health and disease.

See Also:

• Phospholipase A2
• Arachidonic Acid
• Inflammation