Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, Volume 1 - Murray R. 1993

Bioenergetics and Metabolism of Carbohydrates and Lipids
Metabolism of Unsaturated Fatty Acids and Eicosanoids
Biomedical Significance

The melting point, and consequently the fluidity of fats, depends on their unsaturated fatty acid content. Cell membrane Phospholipids contain unsaturated acids, which play a crucial role in maintaining membrane fluidity. A sufficiently high ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated Fatty acids in the diet is a key factor in lowering plasma Cholesterol levels and is believed to help prevent The Development of CORONARY Heart DISEASE. Prostaglandins and thromboxanes are local-action Hormones; when needed, they are rapidly synthesized and act in the immediate vicinity of their synthesis site. The anti-inflammatory effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. The primary physiological function of prostaglandins is to modulate adenylate cyclase activity, which is manifested, for example, in The regulation of platelet aggregation or the inhibition of antidiuretic hormone action in the Kidneys. Leukotrienes have The ability to induce Muscle contraction and chemotaxis, suggesting that they play a significant role in allergic reactions and inflammation.

A mixture of leukotrienes was recently identified as the "slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis." By varying The ratio of various polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet, it is possible to influence the composition of synthesized Eicosanoids; therefore, it appears feasible to modulate the course of certain diseases through a specialized diet.



Last update: 06/08/2026

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