Omega-6 Arachidonic Acid Unit Converter

Arachidonic acid (AA) is a 20-carbon polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that serves as a key component of cell membranes throughout the body. It is especially abundant in the brain, muscles, and liver.

When released from cell membranes, arachidonic acid is converted into eicosanoids, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. These signaling molecules regulate inflammation, immune responses, blood clotting, and vascular tone.

This test measures arachidonic acid as a percentage of total fatty acids, typically in red blood cell membranes or plasma. It is often interpreted alongside omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA) and the AA/EPA ratio to assess overall fatty acid balance.

Arachidonic acid is obtained directly from dietary sources such as meat, poultry, eggs, and fish. The body can also synthesize it from linoleic acid (another omega-6 fatty acid found in vegetable oils) through desaturation and elongation enzymes in the liver.