Oleylethanolamide

Oleylethanolamide (OEA) is a naturally occurring lipid that plays a crucial role in the regulation of feeding behavior and body weight. It is an ethanolamide of oleic acid and is synthesized in the small intestine in response to feeding. OEA is a potent appetite suppressant and has been shown to reduce food intake and body weight in various animal models.

Structure and Synthesis

OEA is a long-chain fatty acid ethanolamide, structurally similar to the endocannabinoid anandamide. However, unlike anandamide, OEA does not bind to cannabinoid receptors and does not have psychoactive effects. The synthesis of OEA involves the enzymatic condensation of oleic acid and ethanolamine, a process that is catalyzed by the enzyme N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-hydrolyzing phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD).

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Chemical structure of oleylethanolamide

Function and Mechanism of Action

OEA acts as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) agonist. PPAR-α is a nuclear receptor that regulates lipid metabolism and inflammation. Activation of PPAR-α by OEA leads to a decrease in food intake and an increase in lipolysis, the breakdown of fat. OEA also enhances satiety by stimulating the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that slows gastric emptying and promotes feelings of fullness.

Clinical Significance

Due to its appetite-suppressing effects, OEA has potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of obesity and overweight. Several preclinical studies have shown that OEA can reduce body weight and improve metabolic parameters in obese animals. However, more research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of OEA in humans.

See Also

• Fatty acid amide hydrolase
• Endocannabinoid system
• Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors