Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid pathway

The **Omega−3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) pathway** encompasses all biochemical reactions involved in converting dietary precursors—primarily α-linolenic acid—into longer-chain omega−3 PUFAs such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This process involves desaturation and elongation steps catalyzed by specific enzymes like Δ12-desaturase and Δ15-desaturase. The resulting long-chain omega−3 PUFAs play critical roles in cell membrane structure, regulation of inflammation through modulation of eicosanoid production, gene expression via nuclear receptors such as peroxisome proliferator–activated receptors (PPARs), cardiovascular health, neurodevelopmental processes, and immune function. The “pathway” is not itself druggable; instead, its end-products are used therapeutically for conditions like hypertriglyceridemia or studied for their effects on chronic diseases including cardiovascular disorders and neurodegeneration.

Other names

Omega-3 PUFA biosynthetic pathwayOmega-3 fatty acid synthesis/metabolismn−3 PUFA metabolic pathway

For drugs targeting this system/products: - Lowering triglyceride levels by reducing hepatic VLDL synthesis/secretion - Competing with arachidonic acid for eicosanoid production, leading to less inflammatory mediators