Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) is a lipoxygenase that oxidizes polyunsaturated fatty acids to yield a range of lipid mediators with biologic activity. In inflammation, ALOX15-derived products participate in both resolving inflammation and propagating inflammatory signaling, producing pro-resolving mediators as well as pro-inflammatory lipid signals that can amplify tissue damage. Animal models with gene knockout or transgenic manipulation indicate that ALOX15 contributes to disease processes in several inflammation-related conditions. Evidence links ALOX15 to neuroinflammatory processes, atherosclerotic development, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and metabolic inflammatory disorders, suggesting a multifaceted involvement in pathogenesis rather than a single directional effect. The overall picture is that ALOX15 has context-dependent roles, supporting resolution in some settings while promoting inflammation in others, which may influence disease progression and severity. The article provides a systematic synthesis of current findings on ALOX15’s contributions across inflammation-associated diseases, highlighting both its regulatory complexity and potential as a therapeutic target. Uncertainty remains regarding the precise conditions under which ALOX15 shifts toward pro- vs pro-resolving pathways in specific diseases.
Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) is a key member of the lipoxygenase family, catalyzing the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to produce numerous biologically active lipid mediators. Recent studies have revealed that ALOX15 and its metabolites play a complex regulatory role in inflammatory responses. They are not only involved in inflammation resolution through the production of pro-resolving mediators but can also generate pro-inflammatory lipid signals that exacerbate inflammatory damage. Research utilizing gene knockout and transgenic animal models further indicates that ALOX15 contributes to the pathogenesis of various inflammation-related diseases, including neuroinflammation, atherosclerosis, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and metabolic inflammatory diseases. This article systematically reviews the current understanding of the role of ALOX15 in inflammation-associated diseases.