docosapentaenoic

Docosapentaenoic acid, often abbreviated as DPA, is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. It is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid with 22 carbon atoms and five cis double bonds. DPA is found in various sources, including the flesh of fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, as well as in some marine algae. It can also be synthesized in the human body from other omega-3 fatty acids like alpha-linolenic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), although this conversion is relatively inefficient.

DPA plays a role in human health, contributing to various physiological processes. Research suggests it may be involved in cardiovascular health, brain development, and immune function. Like other omega-3 fatty acids, DPA is incorporated into cell membranes and can influence their fluidity and function. Studies have explored its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its impact on lipid metabolism. The precise mechanisms and extent of its benefits are ongoing areas of scientific investigation, and dietary intake recommendations vary.