PUFAs: Fatty Acid Elongation and Desaturation

The video discusses the importance of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, in human health. It explains the processes of desaturation and elongation in fatty acid synthesis, highlighting the roles of desaturase and elongase enzymes. The synthesis of arachidonic acid from linoleic acid is detailed, emphasizing the body's easier synthesis of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids compared to anti-inflammatory omega-3s. The evolutionary perspective on the body's preference for omega-6 synthesis is also explored.

What is the primary reason DHA is considered essential for humans?

• It can be easily converted from other fatty acids.

• It is a pro-inflammatory fatty acid.

• It is crucial for brain and retinal health.

• It is synthesized in large amounts by the body.

Which enzyme is responsible for adding double bonds to fatty acids?

• Elongase

• Desaturase

• Cytochrome B5

• Fatty Acid Synthase

What is the role of cytochrome B5 reductase in fatty acid synthesis?

• It converts omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids.

• It transfers electrons in the electron transport chain.

• It lengthens fatty acid chains.

• It adds double bonds to fatty acids.

How does elongase contribute to fatty acid synthesis?

• By converting saturated fats to unsaturated fats.

• By lengthening fatty acid chains by two carbons.

• By shortening fatty acid chains.

• By adding double bonds to fatty acids.

Why do humans have an easier time synthesizing omega-6 fatty acids compared to omega-3?

• Evolution favored pro-inflammatory responses for survival.

• Omega-3 fatty acids are more abundant in the diet.

• Omega-6 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory.

• Omega-6 fatty acids are not essential.

What is the significance of arachidonic acid in the human body?

• It is a type of omega-3 fatty acid.

• It is used to synthesize eicosanoids like prostaglandins.

• It is not synthesized in the human body.

• It is an anti-inflammatory fatty acid.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of omega-3 fatty acids?

• They are easily synthesized by the human body.

• They are essential for brain health.

• They include DHA and EPA.

• They are anti-inflammatory.