Leukotriene
Leukotriene are autocrine and paracrine eicosanoid lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid by 5-lipoxygenase.
History and name
The name leukotriene comes from the word leukocyte and triene (a compound with three double bonds). What would be later named leukotriene C, "slow reaction smooth muscle-stimulating substance" (SRS) was originally described in 1938 by Feldberg and Kellaway. The researchers isolated SRS from lung tissue after a prolonged period following exposure to snake venom and histamine.
Biochemistry
Synthesis
Leukotrienes are synthesized in the cell from arachidonic acid by 5-lipoxygenase. The lipoxygenase pathway is active in leukocytes and in macrophages and synthesizes leukotrines.
Function
Leukotrienes act principally on subfamily of G protein coupled receptors. They may also act upon peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Leukotrienes are involved in asthamtic and allergic reactions and act to sustain inflammatory reactions.
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