Fatty acids are a type of organic compound composed of carbon hydrogen chains and carboxyl groups, which can be classified into saturated, unsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids based on their degree of saturation.
Energy supply: Fatty acids are the most important energy reserve in the human body, and the energy released during oxidation is much higher than that of carbohydrates.
Cellular structure: As an important component of phospholipids and triglycerides, fatty acids maintain the stability and fluidity of cell membranes.
Signal molecules: Polyunsaturated fatty acids are precursors of bioactive substances such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, and participate in inflammatory responses and immune regulation.
Metabolic regulation: Fatty acids and their metabolites can affect blood lipid levels and insulin sensitivity, which is of great significance for cardiovascular health.
It is these characteristics that make fatty acids occupy a central position in nutritional science and biomedical research.
Through chemical modification or biosynthesis, fatty acids can be converted into derivatives such as esters, alcohols, salts, and polymers, and their application fields are constantly expanding
Food industry: Fatty acid esters are widely used as emulsifiers and stabilizers to improve the texture and taste of food; Medium chain fatty acid glycerides are commonly used in infant formula and sports nutrition products due to their easy absorption.
Medicine and Health Care: Fatty acid derivatives have anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering functions, and omega-3 derivatives are widely used in improving cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health as well as neurodegenerative diseases.
Chemical and New Materials: Fatty acid salts are important raw materials for surfactants and lubricants; Biobased polymers based on fatty acids have gradually become an important direction for environmentally friendly materials due to their renewability and degradability.
Cosmetics and daily chemical products: Due to their good skin affinity and moisturizing properties, fatty acid derivatives are widely used in skincare, cleaning, and personal care products.
