Biology of LPA in health and disease

The functions of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) can be broadly divided into two classes: (1) physiological and (2) pathological roles. The role of LPA in embryonic development can be seen as early as oocyte formation. It continues in postnatal homeostasis, through its ability to impart a level of protection from both stress and local injury, by regulating cellular proliferation, apoptosis, and the reorganization of cytoskeletal fibers. LPA may function as a double-edged sword. While it helps maintain homeostasis against stress and insult, it may also augment the development and spread of pathological processes, including cancers. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.