A human homolog of the vaccinia virus HindIII K4L gene is a member of the phospholipase D superfamily.

We have identified a human gene encoding a protein with 48% amino acid identity to the vaccinia virus (VV) K4L gene product. Both contain motifs characteristic of the phospholipase D (PLD) protein superfamily. These proteins are also related to vaccinia virus p37, encoded by the F13L gene, which is required for envelopment and spread of the virus. The similarity to phospholipase D provides insight into the mechanisms and evolution of these processes.