5-Lipoxygenase (5-LO) catalyzes two steps in biosynthesis of leukotrienes (LTs), a group of
lipid mediators of inflammation derived from arachidonic acid (AA). LT antagonists are used
in treatment of asthma; more recently a potential role also in atherosclerosis has raised
considerable interest. Furthermore, possible effects of 5-LO metabolites in relation to
tumorigenesis have emerged. Thus, an understanding of the biochemistry of this
lipoxygenase has potential implications for treatment of various diseases.