About the structure and biological function of TX
What is the structure of Thromboxane?
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.
What is the function of Thromboxane?
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.
