Mediator function of molecular factors--lipoxygenase enzyme systems during exposure to ionizing radiation

This paper, which is a review of the national literature on the mediatory function of lipoxygenase systems affected by ionizing radiation, reports data on the functional role of lipoxygenases, their regulator--mediate contribution to radiation response of plants and animals. The latest data are submitted concerning the biological regulatory systems, eicosanoids--leukotrienes, formed under the effect of lipoxygenases which catalyse oxidation of polyunsaturated arachidonic acid (20:4). The structure and function of leukotrienes are described for these are necessary in studying the biochemical functions of lipoxygenases after ionizing irradiation. Emphasis is made on biologically active leukotrienes which take part in biological processes involved in inflammatory and hypersensitive reactions under the effect of radiation. Possible involvement of the lipoxygenase systems in metabolism regulation, its resistance and activation in a living body during development of radiopathological processes are discussed. The modelling concepts are considered for perspective radiation research aimed at biotechnological utilisation of lipoxygenases. Some regularities of mediatory function of lipoxygenase systems have been found. An assumption has been made that lipoxygenases and leukotrienes play an important role in the life of irradiated cells and tissues.