About the structure and biological function of BCFA
Structure. Branched-chain fatty acids (BCFA) belong to the group of fatty acids within the fatty acyls. Their structure consists of a main hydrocarbon chain with a carboxylic head group and one or multiple short, off-branching hydrocarbons. Often, the branch is a single methyl group on the penultimate (iso) or antepenultimate (anteiso) carbon atom. BCFAs can feature multiple double bonds.
Function. Branched-chain fatty acids are major components of bacterial membrane lipids that are responsible for maintaining membrane fluidity and function. Particularly in meat and dairy products of ruminant animals like sheep and goats, BCFAs influence the taste and the smell. Further, branched-chain fatty acids accumulate in some peroxisome biogenesis disorders. Additionally, BCFA are being explored for their potential benefits in inhibiting cancer proliferation.