Methods and compositions for synthesis of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids

摘要

The present invention relates to a fatty acid DELTA5-desaturase able to catalyze the conversion of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid to arachidonic acid. Nucleic acid sequences encoding a DELTA5-desaturase, nucleic acid sequences which hybridize thereto, DNA constructs comprising a DELTA5-desaturase gene, and recombinant host microorganism or animal expressing increased levels of a DELTA5-desaturase are described. Methods for desaturating a fatty acid at the DELTA5 position and for producing arachidonic acid by expressing increased levels of a DELTA5 desaturase are disclosed. Fatty acids, and oils containing them, which have been desaturated by a DELTA5-desaturase produced by recombinant host microorganisms or animals are provided. Pharmaceutical compositions, infant formulas or dietary supplements containing fatty acids which have been desaturated by a DELTA5-desaturase produced by a recombinant host microorganism or animal also are described.