Unsaturated fatty acids in natural edible resources, a systematic review of classification, resources, biosynthesis, biological activities and application

Unsaturated fatty acids are widely distributed in natural edible resources, and have various uses and biological activities. However, no relevant review on unsaturated fat acids from natural edible resources has been found. Therefore, this paper reviewed unsaturated fatty acids in natural edible resources, including the classification and resources of unsaturated fatty acids, biosynthetic pathway, biological activities and application. It was found that unsaturated fatty acids have good therapeutic value in preventing oxidative stress, inflammation, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, cancer and osteoporosis. This paper will provide reference for the study of unsaturated fatty acids in natural edible resources. [Display omitted] •The resource and classification of unsaturated fatty acids were summarized.•Biosynthesis pathways and biological activities of unsaturated fatty acids were summarized.•The application of unsaturated fatty acids was summarized.