Linoleic acid
From Free net encyclopedia
Linoleic acid (LA) is an unsaturated omega-6 fatty acid with the molecular formula C18H32O2. It is a colorless liquid. In physiological literature, it is given the name 18:2(n-6). Its systematic chemical name is cis, cis-9,12-octadecadienoic acid. Chemically, linoleic acid is a carboxylic acid with an 18-carbon chain and two cis double bonds; the first double bond is located at the sixth carbon from the omega end.
The word linoleic comes from the Greek word linon (flax). Oleic means of, relating to, or derived from oil or of or relating to oleic acid.
Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid used in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and cell membranes and in other natural oils. These oils include vegetable oil, especially sunflower oil.
To be fully utilised by the body, LA must be converted into gamma-linolenic acid, a reaction catalysed by the enzyme delta-6-desaturase (D6D).
Linoleic acid is used in making soaps, emulsifiers, and quick-drying oils. Reduction of linoleic acid yields linoleyl alcohol.
Linoleic acid is one of the two essential fatty acids that humans require. The other is alpha-linolenic acid. They are called "essential" because they can not be produced by the human body. Deficiency symptoms include dry hair, hair loss, and poor wound healing. Apparently, it is easy to meet the daily requirement for these fatty acids (even for people consuming low fat diets). Consuming approximately a tablespoon of polyunsaturated plant oils a day is sufficient. Essential fatty acids should not be confused with essential oils which are not required by the human body.