[Leukotrienes].

The paper deals with the structure and nomenclature, distribution, metabolism and biological role of leukotrienes, a group of derivatives of eicosanic acids, in the human and animal organism. Leukotrienes can cause contraction of smooth muscles, stimulate the function of leukocytes, and affect the permeability of vessels and arterial pressure. The participation of these substances in the inflammatory processes and allergic reactions is discussed.