HETEs physiological roles

A third mechanism for the oxygenation of arachidonic acid involves the cytochrome P450 pathway. The activity of the monooxygenases in this microsomal system yields epoxides, certain forms of HETEs (e.g., w-hydroxy derivatives), and diol forms (diHETEs) (Fig. 35.13). The biologic activities of these compounds include actions in ocular, vascular, endocrine, and renal systems. Some of these actions are attributed to inhibition of Na, K -ATPase. The physiologic role of these compounds remains to be fully characterized. 

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