Leukotriene B4 ELISA Kit

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a potent lipid mediator and part of the leukotriene family derived from arachidonic acid by 5-lipoxygenase. It has a molecular mass of approximately 336.5 Da. LTB4 is primarily produced by leukocytes including neutrophils macrophages and mast cells. It plays an important role in inflammatory processes by acting as a chemoattractant for neutrophils guiding them to sites of tissue damage or infection.

Biological function summary

LTB4 functions in immune response regulation by activating leukocytes through binding to its specific G-protein coupled receptor known as BLT1. This interaction leads to a series of intracellular signaling events that result in degranulation superoxide production and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The actions of LTB4 are not typically part of a larger multimeric complex; instead its activity involves direct interactions with cell surface receptors illustrating its role as a messenger in inflammatory response.

Pathways

The biosynthesis of LTB4 is a component of the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. It forms through the lipoxygenase pathway and is closely related to other eicosanoids like leukotriene A4. The relation with proteins such as 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein (FLAP) is significant as this protein facilitates the conversion of arachidonic acid into leukotrienes anchoring LTB4 within the broader framework of inflammatory mediators and signaling molecules.

Associated diseases and disorders

LTB4 plays a significant role in conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Elevated levels of LTB4 are often observed in the inflamed airways of asthma patients correlating with bronchoconstriction and airway hyperreactivity. Similarly in rheumatoid arthritis LTB4 contributes to joint inflammation and pain. In these contexts LTB4 interacts with proteins like cysteinyl leukotrienes contributing to the severity of inflammatory manifestations and offering a target for therapeutic intervention.