Leukotriene A4 synthase

Leukotriene A4 synthase (LTA4S) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, which are lipid mediators involved in various physiological and pathological processes. LTA4S is primarily responsible for the conversion of arachidonic acid into leukotriene A4 (LTA4), which serves as a precursor for the synthesis of other leukotrienes.

Structure

LTA4S is a cytosolic enzyme that belongs to the family of metallohydrolases. It is composed of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight of approximately 75 kDa. The enzyme contains a zinc ion at its active site, which is essential for its catalytic activity.

Function

The main function of LTA4S is to catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, into LTA4. This reaction involves the removal of a hydrogen atom from arachidonic acid and the addition of molecular oxygen. LTA4 serves as a crucial intermediate in the synthesis of various leukotrienes, including leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and leukotriene C4 (LTC4).

LTA4S is highly expressed in immune cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, and mast cells, which are involved in inflammatory responses. The leukotrienes produced by LTA4S play important roles in regulating immune cell recruitment, activation, and migration to sites of inflammation.

Clinical Significance

Dysregulation of LTA4S activity has been implicated in several inflammatory diseases, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Inhibition of LTA4S activity has been explored as a potential therapeutic strategy for these conditions.

Internal Links

- Leukotrienes: Learn more about the family of lipid mediators that LTA4S is involved in synthesizing. - Arachidonic Acid: Discover the precursor molecule that LTA4S converts into leukotrienes. - Leukotriene B4: Explore one of the leukotrienes produced from LTA4, which is known for its pro-inflammatory effects. - Leukotriene C4: Learn about another leukotriene derived from LTA4, which is involved in allergic and inflammatory responses.

Categories

- Enzymes: LTA4S is an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes. - Inflammation: LTA4S plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses and inflammation. - Pharmacology: Inhibition of LTA4S activity is being investigated as a potential therapeutic approach.

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