Leukotrienes. Biology and role in disease.
Leukotrienes are a novel group of chemical messengers derived from arachidonic acid. They are produced by several different tissues by processes linked to phospholipid flux in response to specific stimuli. The leukotrienes interact with specific receptors in target cell membranes to initiate a response. Most of these responsive cells are derived from bone marrow, skin, smooth muscle, and vascular endothelium. Leukotrienes are powerful mediators of inflammation and smooth muscle contraction, and there is increasing evidence that they are important factors in immune-mediated disease. Several available effective antiinflammatory drugs may act partially by inhibiting the production of leukotrienes.
Hansen
B
B
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Ohio State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Columbus.
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism*; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000276:immunology; D015289:Leukotrienes / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D009130:Muscle, Smooth / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor / Q000378:metabolism
D015289:Leukotrienes; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor