University:
Liberty University
Course:
BIOM 500 | Introduction to Biomedical Sciences
Academic year:

2024
Views:

262

Pages:

5
Author:

Sheha A.

**Essential Fatty Acid** * The fatty acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own and must be supplied through the diet are called essential fatty acids. * These contain more than one double bond. * E.g. linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidonic acid * All essential fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids. * These fatty acids are crucial for the formation of cell membranes. * A lack of these essential fatty acids can lead to various health problems, including skin problems, poor wound healing, and hormonal imbalances. * These fatty acids are found in foods like fish oil, flaxseed oil, and nuts. **Function** * Essential fatty acids serve as the building blocks of phospholipids (cell membranes, lipoproteins, eicosanoids), eicosanoids, and local hormones. * They also regulate the synthesis of phospholipids (cell membranes) and help in the formation of lipoproteins. * They help in lipid absorption. * They also regulate the formation and function of cell membranes. * They lower the serum cholesterol level. * They have anti-atherosclerotic effect. * They promote fat mobilization from liver. * They also prevent fatty liver. * Eicosanoids (PGs, prostacyclins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes, lipoxins) are the constituents of lipids of membranes.