Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) refer to straight-chain fatty acids with two or more double bonds and a carbon chain length of 18 to 22 carbon atoms. They are mainly derived from marine organisms, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), octadecatrienoic acid (also known as linolenic acid), etc. In addition, a variety of unsaturated fatty acids are also obtained from sharks, sea hares, whales, seahorses, sea dragons, etc. Experiments show that they all have certain pharmacological activities.

Types

PUFAs can be categorized into two main families based on the position of the first double bond from the terminal methyl (omega) end of the molecule:

• Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have the first double bond at the third carbon atom from the omega end. They include EPA, DHA and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
• Omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids: Omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids have the first double bond at the sixth carbon atom from the omega end. They include linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA).

Main Functions

PUFAs are essential fats that play crucial roles in the body's overall health and functioning. The main functions of PUFAs include:

• Maintain brain health. PUFAs, particularly DHA, are essential for brain development and function. DHA is a major component of cell membranes in the brain and is crucial for maintaining optimal cognitive function, memory, and learning.
• Promote heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood triglyceride levels, reducing inflammation, and improving blood vessel function. EPA and DHA also help lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of blood clots.

• Anti-inflammatory. PUFAs have anti-inflammatory properties that help regulate the body's immune response. They can reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases such as arthritis, asthma, and autoimmune disorders.
• Maintain eye health. PUFAs can help protect against age-related macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. In addition, DHA is a major component of the retina in the eye and is essential for maintaining good vision and overall eye health.

Alfa Chemistry has a deep research foundation in the field of marine chemistry and is committed to providing customers with a series of high-quality marine pharmaceutical ingredient PUFAs. If you have any requirements, please contact us immediately. We can also provide product customization according to the detailed requirements of customers.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.