Essential Fatty Acid Metabolism

Essential fatty acid (EFA) metabolism refers to the biochemical processes involving essential fatty acids—polyunsaturated fatty acids that humans and other animals cannot synthesize de novo and must obtain from the diet. The two primary EFAs are linoleic acid (LA, an omega-6 fatty acid) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid). These EFAs are vital for normal physiological functions, serving as precursors for longer-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and bioactive lipid mediators. The main enzymes involved in EFA metabolism include desaturases, elongases, cyclooxygenases, and lipoxygenases. EFA-derived metabolites have diverse roles, including precursors for eicosanoids that regulate inflammation and immunity, formation of endocannabinoids, generation of specialized pro-resolving mediators, and modulation of gene expression. Altered EFA metabolism has been implicated in various diseases. The balance between dietary omega-3 vs. omega-6 is crucial for optimal health outcomes.