Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is an enzyme found in snake venom used for prey immobilization. PLA2 is a neurotoxic enzyme found at high levels in coral snake venom that hydrolyzes glycerophosolipids causing lipid membrane damage in the neural cells, and therefore a loss in prey muscle function. This study investigates the primary intramolecular forces responsible for the extreme stability of this protein molecule. Various reagents were used to selectively disrupt specific intermolecular interactions to determine which are important for the stability of the protein. The relative roles of hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interactions, salt bridges, and disulfide bonds were investigated. The results provide insight into the forces important for maintaining the structure and activity of this enzyme.

Role of various intramolecular forces in phospholipase A<sub>2</sub> stability

247th National Meeting (2014)

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Role of various intramolecular forces in phospholipase A2 stability

Role of various intramolecular forces in phospholipase A₂ stability