12(S)-HETE is a product of arachidonic acid metabolism through the 12-lipoxygenase pathway. It is primarily found in platelets, leukocytes, and to a lesser extent in smooth muscle cells. It enhances tumor cell adhesion to endothelial cells, fibronectin, and the subendothelial matrix. tetranor-12(S)-HETE is the major β-oxidation product resulting from peroxisomal metabolism of 12(S)-HETE in numerous tissues, and Lewis lung carcinoma cells. No biological function has yet been determined for tetranor-12(S)-HETE. Some data indicate it may play a role in controlling the inflammatory response in injured corneas. In some diseases (e.g., Zellweger's Syndrome) peroxisomal abnormalities result in the inability of cells to metabolize 12(S)-HETE, which may be responsible for symptoms of the disease. The tetranor derivative of 12(S)-HETE is available as a research tool for the elucidation of the metabolic fate of its parent compound.