Shows lipase activity (PubMed:26398213). Is highly immunogenic and may play an important role in the virulence and pathogenesis of M.tuberculosis infection, by altering the balance of cytokines. Significantly down-regulates the expression level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma) and up-regulates the level of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-10 as compared to LPS stimulated macrophages. Also inhibits the expression of iNOS, TLR2 and transcription factor NF-kappa-B in LPS stimulated macrophages whereas the expression of TLR-4 remains unchanged (PubMed:28412202). H2O + hexadecanoate ester = an aliphatic alcohol + H(+) + hexadecanoate Belongs to the 'GDXG' lipolytic enzyme family.