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Hello there, 

Sometimes, science takes us in unexpected directions. In this case, it started with dolphins.

While studying aging dolphins at the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, researchers noticed something surprising: the healthiest dolphins had higher levels of a rare fatty acid in their blood—C15:0 (pentadecanoic acid).

That unexpected finding sparked a deeper investigation into this little-known fat. Could it play a role in supporting metabolic health, reducing inflammation, or even extending lifespan?

A new study from UC San Diego and Epitracker published in Nature builds on that early work, offering new insight into how this saturated fatty acid may impact long-term health.

C15:0 Benefits

What has past research already shown about this fatty acid?

A growing body of epidemiological research in humans had already linked higher circulating levels of C15:0 to a range of health benefits. These include:

• Lower risk of type 2 diabetes

• Reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease

• Decreased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

• Protective associations with pancreatic cancer, obesity, and chronic inflammation

• In some studies, even lower risk of death from any cause

These findings have sparked renewed interest in understanding how this odd-chain saturated fat may support longevity, setting the stage for new research into its molecular effects.

What the Study Found

So, what exactly is C15:0—and how does it work?

C15:0 is what scientists call an odd-chain saturated fatty acid. It occurs naturally in small amounts in full-fat dairy, fatty fish, and some plants.

While saturated fats are often labeled as harmful, emerging research shows that not all saturated fats act the same way in the body. This study builds on earlier observations in dolphins and explores how C15:0 may impact human health at the cellular level.

In this study, researchers used human cell models and small animals to show that C15:0 can:

• Restore mitochondrial function, helping cells produce energy more efficiently

• Reduce inflammation, which plays a key role in many chronic diseases

• Stabilize cell membranes, protecting them from stress and damage

• Activate PPAR receptors, which help regulate fat metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation

These effects were not only far reaching, but in some cases, they were even stronger than those seen with omega-3 fatty acids, which have long been considered one of the most beneficial types of fat for human health.

Rethinking Saturated Fats

The growing body of research on odd-chain saturated fatty acids (OCFAs) like C15:0 is challenging the idea that all saturated fats are harmful. While even-chain saturated fats (like C14:0 and C16:0) have been linked to chronic diseases, OCFAs may support metabolic, inflammatory, and even mitochondrial health.

This evolving science highlights the importance of looking more closely at the types of fats we consume and how they fit into overall dietary patterns, rather than grouping all saturated fats into the same category.

Want more science-backed discoveries like this?
Stay connected for the latest in health research and innovative findings that are shaping the future of nutrition.

Best wishes,
- The Angiogenesis Foundation

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