Phospholipase A2 Group IVD (PLA2G4D) is a calcium-dependent enzyme belonging to the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) superfamily, which hydrolyzes phospholipids to release free fatty acids, including arachidonic acid, and lysophospholipids. These products serve as precursors for bioactive lipid mediators involved in inflammation, immune responses, and cellular signaling. PLA2G4D, specifically, is a member of the cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2) subgroup and is encoded by the *PLA2G4D* gene. It is structurally characterized by a catalytic domain and a C2 domain that mediates calcium-dependent membrane translocation.
PLA2G4D has been implicated in skin barrier function and inflammatory skin conditions. Research highlights its role in lipid metabolism within the epidermis, where it contributes to the synthesis of omega-hydroxy ceramides, critical components of the stratum corneum. Dysregulation of PLA2G4D is associated with pathologies like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, likely due to altered lipid mediator production or impaired epidermal differentiation.
Antibodies targeting PLA2G4D are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in both physiological and disease contexts. They enable detection via techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, or ELISA, aiding in the exploration of its mechanistic role in skin disorders. Additionally, therapeutic antibodies against PLA2G4D are under investigation for modulating inflammatory pathways or restoring epidermal homeostasis, offering potential treatment avenues for chronic inflammatory skin diseases.