|
Abstract The role of phospholipases in cellular activation and arachidonic acid production for prostaglandin and leukotriene biosynthesis is reviewed. Particular emphasis is placed on the function of phospholipase A2 in the processes. The experimental basis of our current state of knowledge of the mechanism of action of the pure, extracellular phospholipase A2 is considered in detail. Experimental approaches dealing with lipid activation, surface dilution kinetics, and enzyme aggregation are considered, and the “dual phospholipid model” for phospholipase A2 action at the lipid/water interface is described in detail. The kinetic analysis of phospholipase A2 inhibitors, including p ‐bromophenacylbromide, manoalide, and an alkylether amide analogue of phosphatidylcholine, is considered in light of this model.
|
