About the structure and biological function of TX
Structure. Thromboxanes (TX) 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 one six-membered ether-containing ring made of the carbon atoms eight to twelve. All thromboxanes contain at least a hydroxyl group on carbon atom 15 and a double bond at carbon atom 13.
Function. Thromboxanes exert hormone-like functions. They interact with G-protein-linked receptors on the cell surface to activate signal transduction pathways inside the cell. TXs modify inflammatory responses but are most well-known for their role in platelet aggregation, vasoconstriction, and smooth muscle proliferation – they are an essential part of the wound repair mechanism. Thromboxane synthesis and thus platelet aggregation is inhibited by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin.
