Fatty Acids: Introduction

Abstract

Fatty acids have been part of the biosphere from its beginning, providing a high calorie foodstuff in metabolism, the structural basis of membranes , an important class of intra-and extracellular signaling molecules , and many other functions. They are a diverse group of molecules, although most are linear aliphatic molecules with a terminal carboxylic acid. Here, we provide an overview of their nomenclature, their synthesis, and their biodegradation and an outline of some of the major classes of fatty acids.