To provide a DNA encoding the phospholipase A2 of Asterina pectinifera, to provide a vector into which the DNA is inserted, to provide a transformant holding the vector, and to provide a method for producing the phospholipase A2 by the use of the transformant.
The cDNA encoding the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) of Asterina pectinifera is isolated by RT-PCR technique based on the amino acid sequence of the PLA2, and the base sequence of the cDNA has been determined. A system enabling the PLA2 to be mass-produced has been developed by integrating the cDNA into an expression plasmid and transferring the resultant cDNA into microorganisms. The recombinant PLA2 thus obtained is higher in specificity to phosphatidylcholine than phosphatidylethanolamine and also higher in specific activity than a commercially available swine pancreas-derived PLA2, therefore being highly useful from the viewpoint of industry.
OSHIMA TAKAO
HAYASHI KENJI
NISHIDA KIYOYOSHI
