Phospholipase A2—A Significant Bio-Active Molecule in Honeybee (<i>Apis mellifera</i> L.) Venom
Phospholipase A<sub>2</sub> (PLA<sub>2</sub>) is a prevalent molecule in the honeybee venom. Its importance is reflected by the number of scientists focused on studying it from various points of view. This review summarises a significant amount of data concerning this fascina...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Molecules |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/30/12/2623 |
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| Summary: | Phospholipase A<sub>2</sub> (PLA<sub>2</sub>) is a prevalent molecule in the honeybee venom. Its importance is reflected by the number of scientists focused on studying it from various points of view. This review summarises a significant amount of data concerning this fascinating substance. Firstly, the origin and occurrence of PLA<sub>2</sub>, with similarities and differences among species or populations of bees are highlighted. Next, its synthesis, post-translational processing and structural features are described, followed by the PLA<sub>2</sub> availability. In a larger section, the multiple effects of honeybee venom PLA<sub>2</sub> are detailed, starting with the main ability as an enzyme to interact with biological membranes and to hydrolyse the sn-2 ester bond in 1,2-diacyl-sn-3-phosphoglycerides; the docking process, the substrate binding and the catalytic steps are analysed too. Then, the pro-/anti-inflammatory effect and allergenic property, the anticoagulant effect and the involvement of PLA<sub>2</sub> in apoptosis are revised. Selected antiviral, antibiotic and antitumoral effects of PLA<sub>2</sub>, as well as its use in immunotherapy are mentioned as beneficial applications. Additionally, the mechanisms of toxicity of PLA<sub>2</sub> are presented in detail. Finally, a number of anti-PLA<sub>2</sub> compounds are enumerated. In each section, the features of the honeybee venom molecule are discussed in relation to PLA<sub>2</sub>s from other species. |
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| ISSN: | 1420-3049 |