What Is cis-Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acid (20:3 c) & What Foods Can I Find It In?

Butter on a tray with a knife
Butter contains cis epoxyeicosatrienoic acid

Cis-Epoxyeicosatrienoic acid, or 20:3 c, is a polyunsaturated cis fatty acid and the cis-isomer of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid.

Exciting research is underway to explore the potential of all-cis-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid in enhancing the success of blood stem cell transplants in recipients.

Additionally, there's a keen interest in investigating whether cis-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid could play a role in hypertension treatment.

Table of Contents

The Cis-Isomer of Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acid

20:3 c is the cis-isomer of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid 20:3. (source )

Isomers are compounds that share the same number of atoms, and the cis-isomer, in particular, signifies that functional groups align on the same side of the carbon chain, distinguishing it from the trans-isomer, where these groups are situated on opposing sides of the carbon chain. (source )

Unlocking the Potential of Cis-Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acid

Cis-Epoxyeicosatrienoic acid, a naturally occurring lipid analog of arachidonic acid, holds promise as a potent anti-inflammatory mediator within the airways.

Furthermore, it serves as a key mediator in endothelial dysfunction associated with hypertension, signifying an imbalance in the pro- and anti-thrombotic functions of this molecule.

This valuable insight may pave the way for innovative hypertension treatments, with aspirin being a potential contender for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Discovering Foods with Cis-Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acid

Cis-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid is predominantly found in dairy and eggs, pork, sausages, luncheon meat, and poultry products.

Notable examples of food sources include:

Explore Further with Our Nutrition Tool

Our nutrition tool offers regularly updated, top-ranked food lists for over 200+ nutrients. While there are only a few foods featuring cis-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid in our tool, here's a concise list of foods rich in cis-Epoxyeicosatrienoic acid. Uncover how this unique fatty acid can add a healthier twist to your dietary choices.

Sara Niemelä

co-founder Care Omnia, Head Content Creator

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Nutrition is my passion. I've spent thousands upon thousands of hours reading, analyzing, categorizing and comparing research studies.

I’m a wife and a mother of three. I enjoy the outdoors, cooking, and spending time with my family.