The Impact of the Ca(2+)-Independent Phospholipase A(2)β (iPLA(2)β) on Immune Cells

The Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2)β (iPLA(2)β) is a member of the PLA(2) family that has been proposed to have roles in multiple biological processes including membrane remodeling, cell proliferation, bone formation, male fertility, cell death, and signaling. Such involvement has led to the identification of iPLA(2)β activation in several diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular abnormalities, glaucoma, periodontitis, neurological disorders, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. More recently, there has been heightened interest in the role that iPLA(2)β plays in promoting inflammation. Recognizing the potential contribution of iPLA(2)β in the development of autoimmune diseases, we review this issue in the context of an iPLA(2)β link with macrophages and T-cells.