15-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid

15-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE) is a biologically active lipid derived from the metabolism of arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid. It is a member of the eicosanoid family, which includes various signaling molecules that play critical roles in inflammation, immunity, and other physiological processes.

Biochemistry

15-HETE is produced through the action of the enzyme 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) on arachidonic acid. This enzyme catalyzes the oxygenation of arachidonic acid to form 15-Hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HPETE), which is subsequently reduced to 15-HETE.

Structure

15-HETE is a hydroxylated derivative of arachidonic acid, characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group at the 15th carbon position. Its chemical formula is C20H32O3, and it has a molecular weight of 320.47 g/mol.

Synthesis

The synthesis of 15-HETE can occur in various cell types, including leukocytes, platelets, and endothelial cells. The production of 15-HETE is often associated with inflammatory responses and can be induced by cytokines and other inflammatory mediators.

Biological Functions

15-HETE has several biological functions, including:

• Regulation of Inflammation: 15-HETE can modulate inflammatory responses by influencing the activity of immune cells and the production of other inflammatory mediators.
• Vascular Function: It plays a role in the regulation of vascular tone and blood pressure by affecting the contraction and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle cells.
• Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis: 15-HETE can influence cell proliferation and apoptosis, impacting processes such as wound healing and cancer progression.

Clinical Significance

15-HETE has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including:

• Asthma and Allergic Reactions: Elevated levels of 15-HETE have been observed in patients with asthma, suggesting a role in airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness.
• Cardiovascular Diseases: 15-HETE may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases by affecting endothelial function and inflammation.
• Cancer: Abnormal levels of 15-HETE have been associated with the progression of certain cancers, including prostate and breast cancer.

Research and Therapeutic Potential

Research into 15-HETE continues to explore its potential as a biomarker for disease and a target for therapeutic intervention. Modulating the production or activity of 15-HETE could offer new strategies for treating inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer.

Also see

• Arachidonic acid
• Eicosanoids
• Lipoxygenase
• Inflammation
• Prostaglandins