The role of conjugated linoleic acid in farm animal
Author(s): Rawad Sweidan
Abstract: The many functions of conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) in animal metabolism and their possible advantages for human and animal health are the main topics of this review. The rumen microbiota of ruminants produces CLAs, a class of geometric isomers of octadecadienoic acids, as an intermediate. Due to their distinct roles as antioxidants, anti-carcinogens, anti-atherosclerotics, anti-obesity agents, anti-diabetics, and immune system enhancers, two major isomers of CLA, cis-9, trans-11 CLA (CLA-9) and trans-10, cis-12 CLA (CLA-10), have been thoroughly examined in recent decades. Due to its structure, CLA is an effective antioxidant. Because it possesses the conjugated diene orientation necessary for the lipid peroxidation process, it contributes to the scavenging of free radicals. The anti-carcinogenic action of CLA may be partially attributed to its antioxidant properties. CLAs are also associated with enhancing immune system properties by mediating the synthesis of inflammation markers. Nevertheless, little is known about the precise health benefits of CLAs and the mechanisms behind their action. CLA is also linked to the metabolism of fats in animal products, such as meat and milk. The supplementation of CLA potently reduces milk fat, involving different pathways that inhibit gene expression of lipogenic enzymes, resulting in milk fat depression in ruminant animals. In addition, supplementation of CLA to non-ruminant animals could shift the lipid composition to more saturated fatty acids in place of monounsaturated fatty acids in their meat.
