NANP Board Practice Exam

Can humans convert omega 6s into omega 3s?

1. No, but further elongation and desaturation within each family are possible

2. No, once converted, they cannot be modified

3. Yes, humans can convert omega 6s into omega 3s

4. Yes, but only in the presence of specific enzymes

The correct answer is: No, but further elongation and desaturation within each family are possible

The correct choice highlights that while humans cannot directly convert omega-6 fatty acids into omega-3 fatty acids, they can further elongate and desaturate fatty acids within their respective families. Each type of fatty acid serves distinct functions in the body, and while they share some metabolic pathways, the conversion from one family to another – such as from omega-6 to omega-3 – does not occur. Elongation and desaturation refer to processes where fatty acids are modified to create longer chains or different saturation states (i.e., more double bonds), which can occur within the omega-6 or omega-3 families themselves. Thus, choice A accurately reflects the metabolic capabilities and limitations related to these essential fatty acids. The other options seem to misinterpret the metabolic pathways involved. For instance, the notion that omega-6 fatty acids could not undergo further modification at all overlooks the fatty acid synthesis processes entirely. The idea that humans can convert omega-6s into omega-3s directly contradicts the established understanding of lipid biochemistry, as is proposed in one of the other choices. Lastly, while specific enzymes are crucial for fatty acid metabolism, suggesting that omega-6s can convert to omega-3s only in their presence does not