Phospholipase A2 as a novel therapeutic target in lung cancer

Abstract

Secreted PLA2 (sPLA2) enzyme, which shows the unique cellular properties and distinct biological roles, is the lipolytic enzyme that acts on glycerophospholipids to induce the release of free fatty acids (FAs). Many researches have reported the human sPLA2s are expressed abnormally in various cancers. But it is still not clear about the specific isoforms function of sPLA2 in these cancers, and its function roles in various cancers. In this review, we will introduce the mechanism and pathway of sPLA2 in cancers as well as the relationship with lipid metabolism. Then we will further discuss the novel technologies which can be applied to explore the action of particular sPLA2 enzyme in lung cancer and the mechanisms of drugs such as small molecule inhibitors or traditional Chinese medicines, with the potential to treat diseases associated with inflammation and lipid metabolism.