Abstract
Fatty acids (FA) synthesised de novo and those obtained from the diet are modified through desaturation and elongation on the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. These reactions produce a variety of long-chain and very long-chain saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids that have a variety of fates and functions. FA serve as substrates in the synthesis of complex lipid classes, such as triacylglycerols and phospholipids, through which these FA facilitate energy storage and membrane fluidity, respectively. Nonesterified FA also exert unique signalling properties. Here, we describe the function and regulation of mammalian fatty acid desaturases (stearoyl-CoA desaturase, Δ5 desaturase, and Δ6 desaturase) and elongases (elongase 1–7). Additionally, we illustrate the diverse physiological roles of specific MUFA and PUFA and their relation to biochemical processes and disease.
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