12-octadecenoic acid

Description

**12-Octadecenoic acid** is also known as **cis-vaccenic acid**. It's a monounsaturated fatty acid with a chemical formula of CH3(CH2)5CH=CH(CH2)10COOH. It's found naturally in various sources, including:

* **Dairy products:** Particularly in milk and butter, where it's one of the major fatty acids present.
* **Meat:** Beef, lamb, and pork also contain cis-vaccenic acid.
* **Plants:** Some plants, like the seeds of certain legumes, also synthesize it.

**Importance for Research:**

Cis-vaccenic acid has garnered significant research interest due to its potential health benefits and biological roles:

* **Precursor to Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA):** Cis-vaccenic acid can be converted to conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in the body. CLA is a group of fatty acids known for their potential anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating effects. This metabolic link makes cis-vaccenic acid a subject of research in understanding CLA biosynthesis and its health implications.
* **Cardiovascular Health:** Studies suggest that cis-vaccenic acid may have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. It might help reduce LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) levels and potentially lower the risk of heart disease. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
* **Anti-inflammatory Properties:** Some studies indicate that cis-vaccenic acid might possess anti-inflammatory properties. This is related to its potential to modulate the production of inflammatory mediators. However, this area requires further investigation.
* **Influence on Milk Fat Composition:** Cis-vaccenic acid is important for the production of milk in dairy animals. Its presence influences the overall fatty acid profile of milk, which has implications for milk quality and nutritional value.
* **Metabolic Studies:** Cis-vaccenic acid is used as a marker in metabolic studies to understand the activity and regulation of various metabolic pathways, including fatty acid biosynthesis and utilization.

**Ongoing Research:**

The research on cis-vaccenic acid is ongoing, and more studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action, optimal doses, and long-term health effects. Areas of current research include:

* Exploring its potential therapeutic roles in conditions like cancer, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease.
* Understanding its impact on lipid metabolism and overall health.
* Investigating its role in dairy production and the implications for milk quality.

**In conclusion, cis-vaccenic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid with potential health benefits and biological roles. Further research is ongoing to clarify its mechanisms of action and fully elucidate its implications for human health and other areas like dairy production.**

12-octadecenoic acid: RN given refers to cpd without isomeric designation [Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), National Library of Medicine, extracted Dec-2023]