Understanding the binding mechanism of succinic acid against phospholipase A from bee venom.

Phospholipase A (PLA ) is responsible for the release of fatty acids from glycerophospholipids. PLA is commonly found in mammalian tissues. It is also found in venom from different animals ranging from insects, arachnid, and snakes. The release of arachidonic acid in large amount results in inflammation and pain. Identification of compounds that can inhibit the activity of PLA is of large scientific and medicinal interest as these compounds can act as antidotes toward snake bites and bee stings. Among the different compounds that have been tested for inhibition of PLA , a secondary metabolite succinic acid is identified to inhibit PLA activity. The inhibition was analyzed using an in vitro PLA inhibition assay and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) studies. The molecular mechanism of the mode of inhibition was studied using molecular docking and simulation studies.