Phospholipase stimulates lipogenesis in SZ95 sebocytes

Introduction: With progressing ageing human sebocytes reduce lipid production. However, the influence of certain aging mechanisms on sebaceous lipid synthesis as well as ways to influence the latter is not fully identified. Certain lipids act as ligands of nuclear receptors such as PPAR. Phospholipase (PLA2) catalyzes the hydrolysis of the sn‐2 fatty acyl bond of phospholipids to yield free fatty acid and lysophospholipid. It has been hypothesized that PPAR may be activated by hydrolysis products of phospholipids and also by eicosanoids obtained through PLA2 activity. Materials and Methods: A method to quantify sebaceous lipid synthesis of SZ95 sebocytes in vitro was established and the cells were treated by snake venom Bothrops moojeni gel filtration fractions (Botmo GF). Botmo GF fractions were further purified by RP‐HPLC, and a fraction with PLA2 activity (Botmo GF11‐117) and a fraction without enzymatic activity (Botmo GF11‐101) were identified and additionally tested. Results: Botmo GF fractions increased lipogenesis in SZ95 sebocytes without inducing apparent toxic or apoptotic effects. Botmo GF11‐101 (1 μg/ml) enhanced neutral lipid synthesis by up to 170% and polar lipid synthesis by up to 120%. The enzymatically active PLA 2 Botmo GF11‐117 (1 μg/ml) increased synthesis of neutral lipids by up to 200%, and polar lipids by up to 120% compared to untreated SZ95 sebocytes. Conclusion: PLA 2 activation or suppression could be important for human sebaceous lipogenesis. PLA 2 modifiers may be attractive for skin lipid research and pharmacological/cosmetic products.