arachidonic acid

American  

[ar-uh-ki-don-ik, ar-] / ˈær ə kɪˈdɒn ɪk, ˌær- /

noun

Biochemistry.

1. an essential fatty acid, C 20 H 32 O 2 , found in the lipids of most tissues, that is a precursor in the synthesis of prostaglandins, prostacyclins, and related effectors.

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arachidonic acid British  

/ ˌærəkəˈdɒnɪk /

noun

1. a fatty acid occurring in animal cells: the metabolic precursor of several groups of biologically active substances, including prostaglandins

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Etymology

Origin of arachidonic acid

First recorded in 1910–15; arachid(ic) + -onic

Example Sentences

"Nestle has undertaken testing of all arachidonic acid oil and corresponding oil mixes used in the production of potentially impacted infant nutrition products," it said on its website.

From Barron's • Jan. 5, 2026

Conversely, lower levels of arachidonic acid led to a higher risk of bipolar disorder.

From Salon • May 2, 2024

There is some evidence linoleic acid can be converted to arachidonic acid in the body and this may play a role in inflammation.

From Salon • Feb. 21, 2024

Normally, arachidonic acid is rapidly broken down in the body, but aspirin stops this process, which can lead to an increase in levels of arachidonic acid, which in turn reduce inflammasome activity and hence inflammation.

From Science Daily • Jan. 30, 2024

The reasoning is that linoleic acid turns into a different fatty acid, arachidonic acid, in the body, and arachidonic acid is a building block for compounds that cause inflammation.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 6, 2023