Effects of essential fatty acids on prostaglandin biosynthesis.

Prostaglandins (PGs) are derived from dietary essential fatty acids (EFAs) by relatively short biochemical pathways. PG synthesis can be manipulated by modifying EFA intake. PGs and related compounds of the 1 and 3 series have desirable or neutral actions while those of the 2 series are mixed, some being desirable but others being highly undesirable. Methods for selectively increasing 1 and 3 series products while simultaneously reducing the formation of arachidonic acid derivatives are described.