LEUKOTRIENES C Meaning and
Definition
-
Leukotrienes C are a class of bioactive molecules belonging to the family of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are lipid compounds derived from arachidonic acid, a fatty acid present in cell membranes. These compounds play a crucial role in the inflammatory response and other immune responses in the body.
Leukotrienes C are produced by the action of different enzymes, including 5-lipoxygenase, on arachidonic acid present in certain types of cells, such as leukocytes and mast cells. The production of leukotrienes C is often triggered by an immune response to various stimuli, such as allergens, infections, or injury.
In terms of function, leukotrienes C are potent mediators of inflammation and can cause constriction of smooth muscle in the airways, leading to bronchoconstriction. This effect is particularly significant in conditions such as asthma, in which excessive production of leukotrienes C can result in prolonged bronchoconstriction and difficulty in breathing.
Furthermore, leukotrienes C can also enhance the migration and activation of other immune cells, such as neutrophils, monocytes, and eosinophils, thus promoting the inflammatory response. They are also involved in regulating vascular permeability, which impacts the movement of cells and substances across blood vessels during inflammation.
Understanding the role of leukotrienes C in the immune response has led to the development of drugs known as leukotriene modifiers, which target the receptors or enzymes involved in their production. These drugs are utilized in the treatment of asthma and other inflammatory disorders, aiming to reduce bronchoconstriction and inflammation.
Common Misspellings for LEUKOTRIENES C
- leuikotrienes a
- keukotrienes c
- peukotrienes c
- oeukotrienes c
- lwukotrienes c
- lsukotrienes c
- ldukotrienes c
- lrukotrienes c
- l4ukotrienes c
- l3ukotrienes c
- leykotrienes c
- lehkotrienes c
- lejkotrienes c
- leikotrienes c
- le8kotrienes c
- le7kotrienes c
- leujotrienes c
- leumotrienes c
- leulotrienes c
- leuootrienes c
Etymology of LEUKOTRIENES C
The word "leukotrienes" is derived from the Greek words "leuko" meaning "white" and "triein" meaning "to rub". They were named leukotrienes because originally they were believed to be white blood cell-derived mediators that cause contraction of smooth muscles. However, later research showed that leukotrienes can also be produced by other cell types.
The "C" in "Leukotrienes C" refers to a specific class or type of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are classified into three main types: leukotrienes A, B, and C, based on the chemical structure of their molecules. Leukotriene C is a subclass of leukotrienes that is further divided into subtypes like leukotriene C4, C3, etc. Each subtype has slight variations in its chemical structure and biological activities.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
