Description
Mead acid is an omega-9 fatty acid, first characterized by James F. Mead. Like some other omega-9 polyunsaturated fatty acids animals can make Mead acid de novo. Its elevated presence in the blood is an indication of essential fatty acid deficiency . Mead acid is found in large quantities in cartilage.
Chemical Properties
Mead acid, also referred to as eicosatrienoic acid, is chemically a carboxylic acid with a 20-carbon chain and three methyleneinterrupted cis double bonds. The first double bond is located at the ninth carbon from the omega end. In physiological literature, it is given the name 20:3(n-9) b. Mead acid can form various hydroxy (HETE) and hydoperoxy (HpETE) products .
Uses
Mead Acid (20:3, n-9) is a precursor in biosynthesis of prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes - anti-inflammatory.
Definition
ChEBI: An icosatrienoic acid with three cis-double bonds at positions 5, 8 and 11.
