Cysteinylleukotriënen

Cysteinyylleukotriënen are a group of lipid compounds derived from arachidonic acid. They play a significant role in the inflammatory responses of the body, particularly in conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis. The synthesis of cysteinyylleukotriënen begins with the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, which acts on arachidonic acid to form leukotriene A4. This intermediate is then converted into various cysteinyylleukotriënen, including leukotriene C4, leukotriene D4, and leukotriene E4, through the action of glutathione S-transferases. These molecules exert their effects by binding to specific receptors, primarily the cysteinylleukotriene receptor 1 (CysLT1R) and cysteinylleukotriene receptor 2 (CysLT2R), which are found on various cell types, including smooth muscle cells, eosinophils, and mast cells. Activation of these receptors leads to a cascade of events, such as bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, increased vascular permeability, and eosinophil recruitment, all contributing to the pathophysiology of inflammatory airway diseases. Due to their potent pro-inflammatory actions, cysteinyylleukotriënen are targets for therapeutic intervention. Leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast and zafirlukast, are commonly prescribed medications that block the binding of cysteinyylleukotriënen to their receptors, thereby reducing airway inflammation and improving symptoms in patients with asthma and other allergic conditions. The study of cysteinyylleukotriënen has provided crucial insights into the mechanisms of allergic inflammation and has led to the development of effective treatments.