About the structure and biological function of FFA
Structure. Free fatty acids (FFA) belong to the group of fatty acids within the fatty acyls. Their structure consists of a hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group. The hydrocarbon chain can further contain multiple double bonds, and be branched or linear, and may feature oxygen containing substituents, such as hydroxyl groups. Free fatty acids are not bound to further lipid components like phospholipids or glycerolipids.
Function. Free fatty acids are the main fuel for cellular energy and an essential element of animal diet. Many dietary lipids are broken down into free fatty acids before being absorbed and metabolized. FFA metabolism profoundly impacts lipid metabolism. Thus, imbalances in levels of distinct free fatty acid species have been linked to various metabolic diseases ranging from cardiovascular disease to diabetes type two, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
