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

Researchers know that arachidonic acid plays a key role in early brain development.

From Salon • May 2, 2024

Researchers found that higher levels of arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid obtained from foods like poultry, seafood and eggs, led to a lower risk of bipolar disorder.

From Salon • May 2, 2024

This surprised the team as arachidonic acid was previously thought to be linked with increased levels of inflammation, not decreased.

From Science Daily • Jan. 30, 2024

However, only a small percentage of linoleic acid is converted to arachidonic acid — which is also a building block for compounds that fight inflammation.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 6, 2023