ABSTRACT
Aspects of the lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway are reviewed with regard to the production of a variety of oxygenated fatty acids. A number of LOX isozymes can catalyze the formation of diverse regiospecific and stereospecific hydroperoxides from naturally occurring polyunsaturated fatty acids. LOX will also oxidize glyceride polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as several “contrived” substrates that mimic essential features of the natural substrate. Such oxidations expand the possibilities for useful biocatalysis.
