.DELTA.2-trans Eicosenoic Acid

Description

Δ²-trans Eicosenoic acid is an α,β-unsaturated fatty acid that is a bi-product of the synthesis of Δ²-cis eicosenoic acid. Δ²-cis eicosenoic acid and its salts have potential medical use for treating diabetes and improving lipid metabolism. A related compound, 2-octadecenoic acid, has been shown to improve liver function and decrease blood sugar in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats.¹

Definition

ChEBI: Trans-2-icosenoic acid is an icosenoic acid in which the double bond is at the 2-3 position and has E configuration. It is an icosenoic acid and an alpha,beta-unsaturated monocarboxylic acid.

References

1. Iwamura, J., Hayashi, C., and Nozomu, T. Medicinal use of α,β-unsaturated fatty acids App. 377,407,1-5(1984).