[Molecular mechanism of fatty acids impact on plasma lipid profile (part I)]

Fatty acids fulfill numerous functions in the human organism: they play part in various metabolic processes, as well as in cell differentiation and inflammation. Impact of fatty acids on lipid homeostasis, and in consequence on cardio-vascular diseases is among the most interesting and still unclear issues. It is believed that, in general, saturated fatty acids increase cholesterol concentration whereas unsaturated fatty acids decrease plasma level of both, cholesterol and triglycerides. This leads to a conclusion that the proportion of ingested fatty acids may have a substantial impact on cardio-vascular complications. The paper deals with the effect of ingested fatty acids on plasma lipids. Their impact on lipid synthesis, as well as on lipid elimination is discussed.