What does leukotriene mean?
Leukotrienes are lipid-based signaling molecules involved in inflammation, immune responses, and airway physiology. They are produced from arachidonic acid and include several structurally related compounds, such as cysteinyl leukotrienes and leukotriene B4. Their effects can include increasing vascular permeability, promoting immune-cell activity, encouraging mucus production, and narrowing the airways. This makes them especially important in allergy and asthma. Drugs that block leukotriene receptors or reduce their production can help prevent or relieve some asthma symptoms, although they are not appropriate for every person. The term is mainly used in scientific and medical contexts, where precision about the particular leukotriene or receptor pathway is important.
nounA leukotriene is any member of a group of biologically active lipid mediators formed from arachidonic acid. These molecules participate in inflammation, immune responses, and the regulation of bronchial smooth muscle, and some contribute to conditions such as asthma.
- Any of a class of eicosanoid lipid mediators involved in inflammation, immune activity, and bronchial physiology.
"The doctor discussed leukotriene modifiers, which can help reduce the frequency of asthma attacks."
"The study measured leukotriene production in the airways of participants with allergic asthma."
"Cysteinyl leukotrienes can narrow airways and increase mucus production."
The plural is used for the class collectively and for individual leukotriene compounds when several are being discussed.
"Different leukotrienes have distinct effects on airway smooth muscle and immune cells."
Leukotrienes are microscopic lipid messengers with an outsized role in airway inflammation, helping explain why some people experience asthma-like symptoms after exposure to triggers such as dust or exercise.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does leukotriene come from?
The name combines leukocyte, referring to a white blood cell, with the chemical term triene, denoting a compound with three double bonds. The leuk- element comes from Greek leukos, meaning “white,” while triene is formed from tri- and the suffix -ene, used in chemical nomenclature for unsaturated compounds. The name reflects the compound's relationship to leukocytes and its three-double-bond structure.
Related word forms
How leukotriene is actually used
Leukotriene is primarily a technical term used in biochemistry, pharmacology, respiratory medicine, and allergy research. In clinical descriptions, it is often modified by terms such as cysteinyl or leukotriene receptor.