A defect in the activities of Δ6 and Δ5 desaturases and pro-resolution bioactive lipids in the pathobiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Figure 1 Metabolism of essential fatty acids and their modulation by insulin, glucose, exercise and oxidative stress. Calorie restriction increases the activity of Δ⁶ and Δ⁵ desaturases. High-fat diet, trans-fats and cholesterol block the activities of Δ⁶ and Δ⁵ desaturases. (-): Inhibition of synthesis or action; (+): Enhancement of synthesis or action. Green arrows indicate beneficial action and/or anti-inflammation whereas red arrows indicate harmful action and/or pro-inflammation. PG: Pro-inflammatory prostaglandin; AA: Arachidonic acid; EPA: Eicosapentaenoic acid; DHA: Docosahexaenoic acid; LTs: Leukotrienes.