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Definition of Phospholipase

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Phospholipase: An enzyme that catalyzes the splitting of a phospholipid molecule by the addition of water. Also called a lecithinase.

There are a number of phospholipases. They are grouped on the basis of the specific chemical bond they split. The phospholipases include phospholipase A1 (PLA1), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), phospholipase C, and phospholipase D.