Phospholipase A2 group IVA (cPLA2α)

Phospholipase A2 group IVA (cPLA2α) is a critical cytosolic enzyme responsible for hydrolyzing membrane phospholipids at the sn-2 position, which liberates arachidonic acid as a precursor for eicosanoid biosynthesis—including prostaglandins and leukotrienes that mediate cellular inflammatory responses and vascular homeostasis. Activation of cPLA2α is tightly regulated by intracellular calcium and phosphorylation, triggering its translocation from the cytosol to intracellular membranes (especially perinuclear membranes). Genetic variants of the PLA2G4A gene, encoding cPLA2α, are implicated in certain inherited bleeding disorders and may contribute to the pathophysiology of inflammatory, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases. The enzyme's pro-inflammatory role makes it an attractive—but challenging—therapeutic target for selective anti-inflammatory drug development.

Other names

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 alphacPLA2αPLA2G4A

Inhibition of cPLA2α blocks the release of arachidonic acid, thereby reducing the synthesis of downstream pro-inflammatory eicosanoids (prostaglandins, leukotrienes). Targeting cPLA2α affects inflammatory signal transduction and may diminish inflammatory and thrombotic responses.