Δ
2-
trans Eicosenoic acid is an α,β-
unsaturated fatty acid that is a bi-
product of the synthesis of Δ
2-
cis eicosenoic acid. Δ
2-
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.
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