Octadecanoids belong to the fatty acyls. Their structure is based on octadecanoic acid, an eighteen carbon atoms long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group. Octadecanoids, eicosanoids, docosanoids, and further lipid groups are collectively termed oxylipins. Their hydrocarbon chain features oxygen-containing substituents. Often, octadecanoids contain one or more double bonds.
Octadecanoids are found in eukaryotes such as animals, plants, and fungi, but rarely in prokaryotes. The composition of the hydrocarbon chain impacts their biological function to a high degree.
Oxidized octadecaenoic acids are linked to modifying inflammatory responses and cellular reaction to cold temperature. While oxidized octadecadienoic acids are also related to inflammation, they are vital in controlling the immune system as well.
Here you can read more about the analysis of endocannabinoids performed at Lipotype:
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