PHYTANIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Phytanic acid is a branched-chain fatty acid that is naturally produced in the body from dietary intake and the breakdown of certain lipids. It is a form of fatty acid commonly found in foods derived from ruminant animals and marine sources, as well as in some plant-based foods. Phytanic acid is primarily derived from the phytol side chain of chlorophyll.
The human body is able to metabolize phytanic acid through a process called alpha-oxidation, which occurs in the peroxisomes of cells. This metabolism involves the breakdown of phytanic acid into pristanic acid, and further oxidation into shorter-chain fatty acids that can be utilized for energy production or incorporated into other cellular components.
Phytanic acid plays an important role in the metabolism of certain lipids and other molecules. It has been shown to have regulatory functions in gene expression and cell signaling pathways. Additionally, phytanic acid is involved in the synthesis of certain lipids, such as cholesterol and certain hormones.
Abnormal accumulation of phytanic acid in the body can result in a condition called Refsum disease, which is a rare genetic disorder characterized by impaired phytanic acid metabolism. This can lead to various symptoms such as vision and hearing loss, muscle weakness, and neurological abnormalities.
In summary, phytanic acid is a branched-chain fatty acid derived from dietary sources and is involved in various metabolic processes in the body. Its regulation and metabolism are crucial for maintaining optimal cellular function and overall health.
Common Misspellings for PHYTANIC ACID
- ohytanic acid
- lhytanic acid
- -hytanic acid
- 0hytanic acid
- pgytanic acid
- pbytanic acid
- pnytanic acid
- pjytanic acid
- puytanic acid
- pyytanic acid
- phttanic acid
- phgtanic acid
- phhtanic acid
- phutanic acid
- ph7tanic acid
- ph6tanic acid
- phyranic acid
- phyfanic acid
- phyganic acid
- phyyanic acid
Etymology of PHYTANIC ACID
The word "Phytanic Acid" has its etymology rooted in Greek. The term "phyton" (φυτόν) means "plant" in Greek, and "anic" is a suffix often used in chemistry to denote the presence of a carboxylic acid. Therefore, "Phytanic Acid" can be translated to mean "acid derived from plants". This name originates from the fact that phytanic acid is a fatty acid that is commonly found in certain plant-based foods.
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