leukotriene

noun

leu·​ko·​tri·​ene ˌlü-kō-ˈtrī-ˌēn How to pronounce leukotriene (audio)
: any of a group of eicosanoids that participate in allergic responses (such as bronchial constriction)

Examples of leukotriene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, produce fewer leukotrienes, which drive allergic inflammation. — Daniel More, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 2025 Leukotriene Modifiers Leukotriene modifiers like Singulair (montelukast) work by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals involved in allergic reactions. — Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leukotriene was in 1979

Rhymes for leukotriene

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Browse Nearby Words

leukotoxic
leukotriene
leuma
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Cite this Entry

“Leukotriene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leukotriene. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

leukotriene

noun
leu·​ko·​tri·​ene ˌlü-kə-ˈtrī-ˌēn How to pronounce leukotriene (audio)
: any of a group of eicosanoids that are generated in basophils, mast cells, macrophages, and human lung tissue by lipoxygenase-catalyzed oxygenation especially of arachidonic acid and that participate in allergic responses (as bronchoconstriction in asthma) see slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis

More from Merriam-Webster on leukotriene

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about leukotriene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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