The hydrolysis is generally the result of the enzymatic action of phospholipase A2.[2] Among other properties, they activate endothelial cells during early atherosclerosis[3][4] and stimulate phagocyte recruitment when released by apoptotic cells.[5] Moreover, LPCs can be used in the lab to cause demyelination of brain slices, to mimic the effects of demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis.