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

See Examples For:

arachidonic acid

"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

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

In research published in Cell Reports, the team describes how fasting raises levels of a chemical in the blood known as arachidonic acid, which inhibits inflammation.

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