5-Oxo-eicosatetraenoic acid

5-Oxo-eicosatetraenoic acid

Chemical structure of 5-Oxo-eicosatetraenoic acid

5-Oxo-eicosatetraenoic acid (5-oxo-ETE) is a potent eicosanoid that plays a significant role in the immune system and inflammation. It is a metabolite of arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is a key component of cell membranes and a precursor to various bioactive lipid mediators.

Biosynthesis

5-Oxo-ETE is synthesized from 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) through the action of the enzyme 5-hydroxyeicosanoid dehydrogenase (5-HEDH). This conversion occurs primarily in leukocytes, which are white blood cells involved in the body's immune response. The production of 5-oxo-ETE is often stimulated by inflammatory signals, making it an important mediator in the body's response to injury and infection.

Biological Functions

5-Oxo-ETE is known to be a powerful chemoattractant for various types of leukocytes, including neutrophils, eosinophils, and monocytes. It plays a crucial role in the recruitment of these cells to sites of inflammation, where they can combat pathogens and facilitate tissue repair. Additionally, 5-oxo-ETE has been implicated in the pathophysiology of asthma and other allergic conditions due to its ability to attract eosinophils, which are key players in allergic inflammation.

Receptor Interaction

The biological effects of 5-oxo-ETE are mediated through its interaction with a specific G protein-coupled receptor known as the OXE receptor (also referred to as OXER1). This receptor is expressed on the surface of various immune cells and is responsible for transducing the signals that lead to cell migration and activation in response to 5-oxo-ETE.

Clinical Significance

Due to its role in inflammation and immune cell recruitment, 5-oxo-ETE is a target of interest in the development of new therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases. Inhibitors of 5-oxo-ETE synthesis or function could potentially be used to treat conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other inflammatory disorders.

Related Pages

• Eicosanoid
• Arachidonic acid
• Leukocyte
• Inflammation
• Asthma