Biological Roles and Biochemistry of the Lipoxygenase Pathway

Abstract

Among the lipid peroxidation reactions, the addition of molecular O 2 to polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is of particular interest in biological systems. The lipoxygenase pathway is the most-studied enzymatic pathway for oxidizing PUFAs, but nonenzymatic reactions have also been characterized. When one considers the significance of lipid peroxidation, it is surprising to discover the many diverse areas that are affected. In fact, whether one considers the process beneficial or detrimental depends on the circumstances. In situations where lipid peroxidation has been implicated in tissue damage, controversy exists over whether it is involved in the primary events causing injury or merely a by-product.