Effects of Purified cis- and trans-Fatty Acid Derivatives on the Hypercholesterolemic Rat

Abstract

Fifteen compounds, derivatives of cis and trans unsaturated C₁₈ fatty acids of high purity, were prepared in the laboratory and compared for plasma cholesterol-lowering effects in cholesterol-fed rats during an 11-day period. The cis-esters were more effective than their non-conjugated or conjugated trans-isomers. The cis-alcohols and hydrocarbons were as effective as their corresponding esters. An acetylenic compound, ethyl stearolate, was inactive. In these tests, and in 30-day tests with other compounds, effectiveness in cholesterol-lowering was also related to degree of unsaturation. Ethyl arachidonate was the most active compound tested. However, ethyl sorbate showed no activity.