LEUKOTRIENE A Meaning and
Definition
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Leukotriene A is a lipid mediator derived from arachidonic acid through the pathway of the arachidonic acid cascade, specifically the lipoxygenase pathway. It is a potent inflammatory substance that plays a crucial role in various physiological and pathological processes in the body.
Leukotriene A is generated by the action of the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase on arachidonic acid, which is released from cell membranes in response to certain external stimuli, such as allergens or chemical irritants. Once synthesized, leukotriene A can undergo further enzymatic transformations to produce other types of leukotrienes, including leukotriene B4 and the cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs), leukotriene C4, leukotriene D4, and leukotriene E4.
These leukotrienes, including leukotriene A, are known for their potent effects in promoting inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and increased vascular permeability. They act by binding to specific receptors located on various cell types, such as immune cells and smooth muscle cells, leading to the activation of inflammatory responses and smooth muscle constriction.
In addition to their role in acute inflammation and allergic reactions, leukotriene A and its metabolites have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various chronic inflammatory disorders, including asthma, rhinitis, and certain skin diseases. Consequently, drugs that inhibit the synthesis or actions of leukotrienes have been developed and are commonly used as therapeutics to manage these conditions.
Common Misspellings for LEUKOTRIENE A
- keukotriene a
- peukotriene a
- oeukotriene a
- lwukotriene a
- lsukotriene a
- ldukotriene a
- lrukotriene a
- l4ukotriene a
- l3ukotriene a
- leykotriene a
- lehkotriene a
- lejkotriene a
- leikotriene a
- le8kotriene a
- le7kotriene a
- leujotriene a
- leumotriene a
- leulotriene a
- leuootriene a
- leuiotriene a
Etymology of LEUKOTRIENE A
The word "Leukotriene A" combines two elements: "leuko" and "triene", which both have Greek origins.
1. "Leuko" comes from the Greek word "leukos", meaning "white". In the medical context, "leuko-" typically refers to white blood cells or substances related to them.
2. "Triene" is formed from the Greek word "tri", meaning "three", and "ene", a suffix indicating a chemical compound with a specific arrangement of carbon atoms. "Triene" signifies the presence of three double bonds in the molecule's structure.
Thus, "leukotriene A" refers to a group of chemical compounds produced by white blood cells (leukocytes) that contain three double bonds in their chemical structure.
