Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are polyunsaturated fats that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through diet. In veterinary medicine, they are primarily used for their anti-inflammatory properties and to support dermatological, cardiovascular, renal, and joint health. * **Omega-3 fatty acids** (EPA, DHA) are typically derived from marine sources (fish oil) and are known for reducing inflammation. * **Omega-6 fatty acids** (Linoleic acid) are crucial for maintaining the epidermal lipid barrier and skin coat quality. > **Clinical Pearl:** The ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 is critical; modern pet diets are often heavy in Omega-6, making Omega-3 supplementation highly beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, atopy, and chronic kidney disease.

กลไกการออกฤทธิ์: **Omega-3s (EPA/DHA)** compete with arachidonic acid (an Omega-6) for the enzymes **cyclooxygenase (COX)** and **lipoxygenase (LOX)**. * EPA/DHA → COX/LOX → Production of less inflammatory eicosanoids (e.g., 3-series prostaglandins and 5-series leukotrienes) instead of the highly inflammatory 2-series prostaglandins and 4-series leukotrienes. * **Omega-6s (Linoleic Acid)** → incorporated into the stratum corneum → improves water barrier function and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

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