Are Leukotrienes Receptors?
Leukotrienes are not receptors. Rather, leukotrienes are a family of compounds manufactured by certain types of white blood cells called leukocytes in response to an allergic trigger. Leukotrienes activate receptors located in the lungs and bronchial muscle and set in motion the inflammatory response. Action of Leukotrienes The action of leukotrienes is similar to histamine, which sets off allergic reactions. Leukotrienes, however, are hundreds of times more potent than histamine, according to the Asthma and Allergy Center. Once activated, leukotrienes cause inflammation. They constrict the airways in the lungs (bronchoconstriction) and increase hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Hyperresponsiveness increases the response of the airways to allergic triggers, further exaggerating the bronchoconstriction. Leukotrienes also stimulate mucus production, resulting in more airway obstruction. More leukocytes are attracted to the lungs, increasing the swelling of the smooth muscle lining the
