Gamma-Linolenic Acid Unit Converter

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid with 18 carbons and three double bonds (C18:3n-6). It sits at a critical branch point in the omega-6 pathway, between linoleic acid and the longer-chain fatty acids that regulate inflammation.

In the body, GLA is rapidly converted to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which produces anti-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGE1) and other protective mediators. Because of this rapid conversion, circulating GLA levels are typically very low and reflect both dietary intake of GLA-containing oils and the body's ability to convert linoleic acid via the delta-6-desaturase (D6D) enzyme.

GLA is measured as part of a fatty acid profile panel. Its levels are interpreted alongside other omega-6 fatty acids such as linoleic acid, DGLA, and arachidonic acid to assess essential fatty acid status and metabolic conversion capacity.

The body produces GLA from linoleic acid using the delta-6-desaturase enzyme, primarily in the liver. Dietary sources include borage oil (17-25% GLA), black currant seed oil (15-20% GLA), and evening primrose oil (7-10% GLA).