Phospholipases: Paving the Way for a New Life

Phospholipases are a large group of enzymes with ramifications on diverse physiological processes. These enzymes are involved in releasing phospholipids, which are subsequently utilized in the production of prostaglandin and calcium signaling. Calcium signaling is central to the function of phospholipases and calcium oscillations have an impact on the variety of events of embryo development. Additionally, the diverse isoforms of the enzymes can activate gene expression and regulatory factors in a stage-specific manner. Any alterations in the level of these enzymes or the pathways regulating these can have a detrimental effect on the development of the embryo and can also cause early embryonic mortality. In addition to contraction, the enzyme is also critical for the maintenance of quiescence in the uterus during pregnancy. This review discusses the crucial roles of the enzymes, starting from sperm capacitation to the parturition and the putative signaling pathways that are involved in these events. The phospholipases has a significant role in many events in the developmental biology of an animal. Any pathology associated with this enzyme group will have significant consequences on the progression of pregnancy.