Omega-6-derived eicosanoid pathway

The Omega-6-derived eicosanoid pathway is a complex metabolic network that converts omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, primarily arachidonic acid, into potent bioactive lipid signaling molecules called eicosanoids [3, 6]. These mediators, which include prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, are synthesized through the action of enzymes such as cyclooxygenases (COX), lipoxygenases (LOX), and cytochrome P450 epoxygenases [6, 11]. They function as local hormones, regulating critical physiological processes including inflammation, platelet aggregation, smooth muscle contraction, and immune cell recruitment [3, 7]. While these pathways are essential for host defense and tissue repair, their dysregulation is a central driver of chronic inflammatory conditions, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases [3, 12]. Consequently, this pathway is a major focus of pharmacology, with drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and leukotriene modifiers acting to inhibit specific enzymes or receptors within the cascade [11]. Therapeutic targeting of these pathways aims to balance the production of pro-inflammatory and pro-resolving mediators to treat pain and chronic disease [15].

Other names

Arachidonic acid cascaden-6 eicosanoid pathwayOmega-6 fatty acid metabolism

Inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, and antagonism of eicosanoid receptors [11].