Leukotrienes

Leukotrienes are a family of eicosanoid inflammatory mediators produced in leukocytes by the oxidation of arachidonic acid (AA) and are involved in the pathophysiology of asthma. They are part of the inflammatory response in the body and have been particularly implicated in the pathophysiology of asthma.

Structure and Function

Leukotrienes use lipid signaling to convey information to either the cell producing them (autocrine signaling) or neighboring cells (paracrine signaling) in order to regulate immune responses. Leukotrienes are produced in the cell from arachidonic acid by arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase. The catalytic mechanism involves the insertion of an oxygen moiety at a specific position in the arachidonic acid backbone.

Types of Leukotrienes

The leukotrienes are categorized into two main types: the dihydroxy leukotrienes and the cysteinyl leukotrienes.

Dihydroxy Leukotrienes

Dihydroxy leukotrienes like LTB4 are produced by leukocytes and are involved in inflammation and immune response.

Cysteinyl Leukotrienes

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC4, LTD4, LTE4) are produced by various leukocytes and tissues and are involved in various types of allergic reactions including asthma and rhinitis.

Role in Disease

Leukotrienes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. They are thought to be one of the causes of the inflammation, swelling, and bronchoconstriction in the airways of asthmatics.

Treatment

Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are a type of drug that are used to treat these conditions. They work by blocking the action of leukotrienes in the body, reducing inflammation and constriction in the airways, and improving symptoms.

See Also

• Arachidonic acid
• Asthma
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Leukotriene receptor antagonist

Leukotrienes Resources
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