Echis ocellatus phospholipase A2 (EoPLA2)

Echis ocellatus phospholipase A2 (EoPLA2) enzymes are a critical family of toxic proteins found in the venom of the West African carpet viper, one of the most medically significant snakes in Africa (UniProt Taxonomy ID: 8703). These enzymes function by catalyzing the hydrolysis of the sn-2 ester bond in phospholipids, leading to the release of arachidonic acid and lysophospholipids (PubMed: 28103216). This enzymatic activity triggers a cascade of inflammatory responses and direct cellular membrane disruption, resulting in severe local tissue necrosis and edema (PubMed: PMC5015546). EoPLA2s are primary targets for therapeutic intervention, traditionally addressed using antivenoms like EchiTAb-G, which contain antibodies that neutralize the toxins (WHO Guidelines). More recently, the small-molecule inhibitor Varespladib has emerged as a potent candidate for treating snakebite by directly blocking the catalytic site of these enzymes (PubMed: 27383169). Effective inhibition of EoPLA2 is essential for reducing the permanent physical disability often associated with carpet viper envenomation.

Other names

West African carpet viper phospholipase A2EoPLA2Group IIA phospholipase A2 from Echis ocellatusEchis ocellatus venom phospholipase A2

Inhibition of the enzymatic hydrolysis of phospholipids at the sn-2 position, which prevents the release of pro-inflammatory fatty acids and lysophospholipids, thereby reducing local tissue damage and systemic inflammation (PubMed: 27383169).