Docosatetraenoylethanolamide

Docosatetraenoylethanolamide (also known as DTEA or 22:4n-6 ethanolamide) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ethanolamide. It is a member of the N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) family, which are bioactive lipids. DTEA is derived from adrenic acid, a PUFA that is abundant in the human brain and other nervous tissues.

Structure and Properties

DTEA is a long-chain fatty acid ethanolamide. Its structure consists of a 22-carbon chain with four double bonds (22:4), hence the name 22:4n-6 ethanolamide. The "n-6" indicates that the first double bond is located at the sixth carbon from the methyl end of the fatty acid chain.

Biosynthesis and Metabolism

DTEA is synthesized from adrenic acid through the action of the enzyme N-acyltransferase (NAT). This enzyme catalyzes the transfer of the adrenic acid to ethanolamine, forming DTEA. The metabolism of DTEA is primarily carried out by the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which hydrolyzes DTEA into adrenic acid and ethanolamine.

Biological Functions

The biological functions of DTEA are not fully understood. However, it is known that DTEA and other NAEs play important roles in various physiological processes, including inflammation, pain perception, appetite regulation, and neuroprotection. DTEA has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in experimental models.

Research and Clinical Significance

Research on DTEA is still in its early stages. However, due to its potential roles in inflammation, pain perception, and neuroprotection, DTEA is of interest in the study of various neurological and inflammatory diseases. Further research is needed to fully understand the biological functions and therapeutic potential of DTEA.

See Also

• N-acylethanolamines
• Adrenic acid
• Polyunsaturated fatty acid
• N-acyltransferase
• Fatty acid amide hydrolase