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Figure 1 | Lipids in Health and Disease

Figure 1

From: Essential fatty acids and their metabolites could function as endogenous HMG-CoA reductase and ACE enzyme inhibitors, anti-arrhythmic, anti-hypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and cardioprotective molecules

Figure 1

Metabolism of essential fatty acids. Prostaglandins of 3 series are less pro-inflammatory compared to prostaglandins of 2 series. Resolvins are formed from both EPA and DHA and are known to have anti-inflammatory actions and participate in the resolution of inflammation. EPA can be converted to DHA. DHA can be retroconverted to EPA. It is estimated that about 30–40% of DHA can be retroconverted to EPA. The biochemical and/or clinical significance of this retroconversion of DHA to EPA are not known. ____ Indicates beneficial action in the form of increase in the synthesis, action, or remission of disease process. ____ Indicates decrease in the synthesis, action or enhancement of pathological process. ____ Indicates inhibition of HMG-CoA and ACE enzymes by PUFAs/EFAs.

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