Modification of plasma lipoproteins by group IIA phospholipase A(2): possible implications for atherogenesis

The present brief review summarizes some recent important studies that support the hypothesis that group IIA phospholipase A(2) may play an active role in atherogenesis. The focus of the paper is primarily on the possibility that this lipolytic enzyme may be involved in the remodeling and modification of plasma lipoproteins that may occur in the arterial wall, as well as in the circulation. In the concept of present knowledge of the hallmarks of atherogenesis, we discuss potential pathways by which changes in lipoprotein composition and physicochemical properties induced by phospholipase A(2) may contribute to initiation and progression of atherosclerosis.