Alpha-linolenic acid metabolism

Alpha-linolenic acid metabolism refers to the series of biochemical reactions that convert dietary alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega‑3 fatty acid found in plant oils such as flaxseed and chia seed oil[7], into longer-chain polyunsaturated n‑3 fatty acids including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)[1][2][8]. Humans cannot synthesize ALA de novo due to lack of specific desaturase enzymes[7], so it must be obtained from the diet. The conversion process involves alternating steps of desaturation and elongation primarily in the endoplasmic reticulum with final steps occurring in peroxisomes[1]. The efficiency of conversion from ALA to EPA is limited—especially for DHA—and is generally higher in women than men due to hormonal regulation[6][8]. These long-chain products play important roles in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health among other functions[1][4]. Note: "Alpha-linolenic acid metabolism" describes a *pathway*, not a discrete molecular target such as an enzyme or receptor. Therefore, it does **not** fit standard definitions for therapeutic targets like receptors or enzymes. If you are seeking information on druggable targets within this pathway—such as delta‑6 desaturase or delta‑5 desaturase—those should be specified individually. Summary judgment: This entry is **not** a valid therapeutic target but rather describes a metabolic process involving multiple molecules/enzymes. For structured data on individual proteins involved in this pathway (e.g., FADS2/delta‑6 desaturase), each should be queried separately with their canonical names[1][4][9].

Other names

ALA metabolismn-3 fatty acid metabolismomega-3 fatty acid metabolism

Not applicable; this is a metabolic pathway, not a single molecular target. However, drugs or nutrients may modulate enzymes within the pathway.