About the structure and biological function of oxiETrE
Structure. Oxidized eicosatrienoic acids (oxiETrE) belong to the group of eicosanoids within the fatty acyls. Their structure is based on eicosanoic acid, a twenty carbon atoms long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group. The chain contains three double bonds, from which their name derives. OxiETrE may further encompass multiple hydroxy groups as well as other oxygen containing substituents.
Function. The biological role of oxidized eicosatrienoic acids is mainly associated with blood vessel function. They modulate vascular tone and homeostasis. In vascular inflammation, they impact inflammatory signaling pathways and are also linked to the regulation of blood vessel formation and angiogenesis. However, some oxiETrE lipids act as inhibitors for these biological actions. Further, oxidized eicosatrienoic acids are biosynthetic precursors to some prostaglandin species.
