AA supplementation

Arachidonic acid is normally supplemented as a free fatty acid or by forming part of triglycerides, or through its precursor, linoleic acid.

Physiological functions

Arachidonic acid (ARA) is an integral component of the cell membrane which gives it the fluidity and flexibility necessary for all cells to function properly, particularly those in the nervous system, skeletal muscle, and the immune system. ARA is obtained from foods or through desaturation and lengthening of the chain of linoleic acid, the essential fatty acid abundant in plants. Free ARA modulates the function of ion channels, various receptors, and enzymes through both activation and inhibition. That explains its fundamental role in proper brain and muscle function.

Metabolytes derived from ARA oxidation contribute to rather than initiate inflammation and, more importantly, lead to the generation of mediators that promote but also resolve inflammation and wound healing.

Endocannabinoids are oxidation-independent ARA derivatives that are critically important for brain reward signaling, motivational processes, emotion, stress responses, pain, and energy balance. Free ARA and metabolytes promote and modulate type 2 immune responses, which are critically important in resistance to parasites and allergens, directly via action on eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells, and indirectly by binding to specific receptors on innate lymphoid cells.

Bibliography

• Tallima H, El Ridi R. Arachidonic acid: Physiological roles and potential health benefits – A review. J Adv Res. 2017;11:33–41. Published 2017 Nov 24. doi:10.1016/j.jare.2017.11.004
• Hanna VS, Hafez EAA. Synopsis of arachidonic acid metabolism: A review. J Adv Res. 2018 Mar 13;11:23-32. doi: 10.1016/j.jare.2018.03.005.

Foods with AA

AA is found mainly in the following: organ meats, lamb and pork, egg yolks, tuna, salmon, eels.