5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) catalyzes two steps in biosynthesis of leukotrienes (LTs), a group of lipid mediators of inflammation derived from arachidonic acid (AA). LT antagonists are used in treatment of asthma; more recently a potential role also in atherosclerosis has raised considerable interest. Furthermore, possible effects of 5-LO metabolites in relation to tumorigenesis have emerged. Thus, an understanding of the biochemistry of this lipoxygenase has potential implications for treatment of various diseases.