LEUKOTRIENES Meaning and
Definition
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Leukotrienes are a group of biologically active compounds derived from arachidonic acid metabolism. They are secreted by various cells, including leukocytes, mast cells, and basophils, and play a significant role in allergic and inflammatory responses in the body. These compounds are involved in the regulation of immune response and the coordination of various physiological processes.
Leukotrienes are lipid mediators that act as potent inflammatory molecules by promoting the dilation and permeability of blood vessels, recruitment of immune cells to the site of inflammation, and activation of other mediators involved in the inflammatory response. They are particularly associated with the symptoms seen in conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Upon release, leukotrienes bind to specific receptors on target cells, triggering a cascade of events leading to various physiological effects. They have been found to increase smooth muscle contraction, mucus production, and vascular permeability, contributing to bronchoconstriction and inflammation in the airways.
Pharmacologically targeting leukotrienes has been a successful strategy in the treatment of allergic diseases, such as asthma. Medications known as leukotriene modifiers are often prescribed to inhibit the synthesis or actions of leukotrienes, providing relief from symptoms and improving lung function.
In summary, leukotrienes are a group of biologically active compounds derived from arachidonic acid metabolism that play a crucial role in the inflammatory response and immune regulation. They are closely associated with conditions characterized by allergic and inflammatory processes, such as asthma, and modulating their actions has proven to be an effective therapeutic strategy.
Common Misspellings for LEUKOTRIENES
- keukotrienes
- peukotrienes
- oeukotrienes
- lwukotrienes
- lsukotrienes
- ldukotrienes
- lrukotrienes
- l4ukotrienes
- l3ukotrienes
- leykotrienes
- lehkotrienes
- lejkotrienes
- leikotrienes
- le8kotrienes
- le7kotrienes
- leujotrienes
- leumotrienes
- leulotrienes
- leuootrienes
- leuiotrienes
Etymology of LEUKOTRIENES
The word "leukotrienes" is derived from two components: "leuko" and "triene".
1. "Leuko": The prefix "leuko-" is derived from the Greek word "leukos", meaning "white". It is commonly used in English to refer to something white or colorless. In medical terms, "leuko-" usually refers to substances or cells related to white blood cells.
2. "Triene": The suffix "-triene" is derived from the Greek word "tri-", meaning "three". In chemistry, it refers to a compound or molecule that contains three alternating double bonds.
Therefore, "leukotrienes" can be understood as "white blood cell-derived molecules containing three alternate double bonds". Leukotrienes are lipid mediators that are produced by white blood cells, such as leukocytes, and play a role in inflammatory and allergic reactions in the body.
