Zileuton primarily acts in which part of the cell?

Zileuton primarily acts in the cytosol of cells. It is a selective inhibitor of the enzyme lipoxygenase, which is involved in the metabolic pathway that converts arachidonic acid into leukotrienes. This pathway is crucial for inflammatory responses and bronchoconstriction in conditions like asthma.

By inhibiting lipoxygenase, zileuton effectively reduces the production of leukotrienes, leading to decreased inflammation and airway hyperreactivity, which is beneficial in the management of asthma and other allergic conditions. The cytosol is where lipoxygenase operates, making it the relevant site of action for zileuton. This understanding highlights why the cytosol is the correct location where this drug exerts its primary effects.