Chemical Name: Palmitoylethanolamide
Molecular Formula: C18H37NO2
Formula Weight: 299.49
CAS No.: 544-31-0
Palmitoylethanolamide Usage And Synthesis
Description Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a fatty acid amide produced in the body that binds to and activates the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α). It was initially described as an agonist to the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2), though it is now recognized that PEA does not bind to cannabinoid receptors. PEA is known to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. PEA supplements have been used by people with chronic pain as well as those with neuropathic pain.
Chemical Properties Palmitoylethanolamide is a natural occurring lipid belonging to the class of autacoids. It is a fine white to yellow powder. PEA consists of palmitic acid and ethanolamine. It is the hydrolyzed form of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-palmitamide, a crystalline structure isolated in soy lecithin. It is this hydrolyzed substance that accounts for the anti-inflammatory properties that were first noted by scientists in 1957. PEA’s effects on the immune system have been studied since 1939.
Uses Palmitoylethanolamide is a natural substance produced by the body and it is very effective and safe to use as a supplement for pain and reduce inflammation.
PEA can be synthesized within the human body from the abundant fatty acid palmitic acid, but it is not dependent or influenced by dietary consumption of fatty acids. Palmitic acid in the diet is derived from dairy products such as cheese and butter, palm tree oil, and animal meat products. However, increasing palmitic acid in the hope of increasing endogenous PEA synthesis will not be effective.
The anti-inflammatory properties of PEA are due to its ability to inhibit inflammation-causing proteins called cytokines. Cytokines are released during periods of inflammation. PEA can suppress the secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), a cytokine, while also inhibiting the release of interleukins. Interleukins are a specific class of cytokines which belong in the immunological system and are activated during the process of inflammation.
Chronic Pain and the Use of Palmitoylethanolamide: An Update
Definition ChEBI: Palmitoylethanolamide is an N-(long-chain-acyl)ethanolamine that is the ethanolamide of palmitic (hexadecanoic) acid. It has a role as an anti-inflammatory drug, an antihypertensive agent, a neuroprotective agent and an anticonvulsant. It is a N-(long-chain-acyl)ethanolamine, an endocannabinoid and a N-(saturated fatty acyl)ethanolamine. It is functionally related to a hexadecanoic acid.
