Question:

The Dihomo-Gamma-Linolenic acid (DGLA, cis,cis,cis-8,11,14-eicosatrienoic acid) is:

(A). an $\omega$-6 fatty acid
(B). formed by conjugation of two linolenic acid molecules
(C). formed by elongation of $\gamma$-linolenic acid
(D). formed by isomerization of $\alpha$-linolenic acid

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Show Hint

To quickly find the omega-classification (\(\omega\)-number) of any PUFA, subtract the position of the last double bond (the largest \(\Delta\) number) from the total carbon number.
  • (A) and (D) only.
  • (A) only.
  • (A) and (C) only.
  • (B) only.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are classified based on the position of the double bond nearest to the terminal methyl carbon (the \(\omega\) or omega carbon).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

- (A) is correct because Dihomo-Gamma-Linolenic Acid (DGLA) is chemically designated as \(20:3 \ (\Delta^{8,11,14})\).
The position of the final double bond from the methyl end is calculated as:
\[ 20 - 14 = 6 \]
This classifies it as an \(\omega\)-6 (omega-6) fatty acid.
- (C) is correct because DGLA is biosynthesized within cells by adding two carbons (elongation) to \(\gamma\)-linolenic acid (GLA, \(18:3 \ \Delta^{6,9,12}\), also an \(\omega\)-6 fatty acid) via an elongase enzyme.
- (B) and (D) are incorrect because fatty acids are synthesized through sequential elongation and desaturation steps, not by linking two large fatty acid molecules together or by direct isomerization.
Thus, only statements (A) and (C) are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Hence, the correct option is (C).
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