(±)16(17)-EpDPA

EDHF (endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor) is an unidentified mediator released from vascular endothelial cells in response to acetylcholine and bradykinin which is distinct from the NOS- (nitric oxide) and COX-derived (prostacyclin) vasodilators.[1], [2]Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids produces epoxides such as (±)14(15)-EET which are prime candidates for the actual active mediator.[3] However, the CYP450 metabolites of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid have been little studied relative to arachidonate epoxygenase metabolites. (±)16(17)-EpDPA is the DHA homolog of (±)14(15)-EpETrE, derived via epoxidation of the 16, 17-double bond of DHA. The EDHF activity of (±)16(17)-EpDPA has not yet been determined. The epoxygenase metabolites of DHA have also been detected in a mouse inflammation model.[4]

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