About the structure and biological function of LT
Structure. Leukotrienes (LT) belong to the group of eicosanoids within the fatty acyls. Their structure is based on eicosanoic acid, a twenty carbon atoms long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group. The chain contains four double bonds of which three are in conjugation. The hydrocarbon chain of LTs can contain further double bonds and oxygen containing substituents.
Function. Leukotrienes exert hormone-like functions. They interact with G-protein-linked receptors on the cell surface to activate signal transduction pathways inside the cell. Specifically, LTs modify pro- and anti-inflammatory responses. Leukotrienes stimulate cellular responses like attracting cells of the innate immune system to the site of insult or enhanced mucus secretion in the airways. Some LT species are linked to chronic inflammation such as atherosclerosis and allergic diseases like asthma.
