leucotriènics

Leucotriènics is a term used in some francophone and broader scientific literature to denote the lipid mediators commonly known in English as leukotrienes. The name derives from their origin in leukocytes (white blood cells) and their triene-containing structure. In this context, leucotriènics refer to a family of arachidonic acid–derived molecules that function as powerful signaling mediators in inflammation and allergic responses.

Biochemically, leucotriènics are produced primarily via the 5-lipoxygenase pathway. A central intermediate, leukotriene A4 (LTA4), can be converted into leukotriene B4 (LTB4) or further transformed into cysteinyl leukotrienes LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4. LTB4 is a strong chemoattractant for neutrophils, whereas LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4 (the cysteinyl leukotrienes) promote bronchoconstriction, increased vascular permeability, and mucus production.

Physiological and clinical relevance centers on their roles in inflammatory and allergic diseases. Leucotriènics contribute to airway hyperreactivity in asthma and to symptoms in allergic rhinitis and certain inflammatory conditions. Therapeutically, products that modulate leucotriènic signaling are well established: 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors (for example, zileuton) reduce synthesis, and leukotriene receptor antagonists (such as montelukast and zafirlukast) block action at the receptor level, particularly the CysLT1 receptor.

History and nomenclature: the discovery and characterization of leukotrienes emerged in the 1970s, shaping understanding of eicosanoid biology. While widely used as a synonym for leukotrienes, the term leucotriènics may appear in some texts to reflect the same class of molecules. See also eicosanoids, prostaglandins, and lipoxins.