Physiological and biochemical effects of conjugated linoleic acid and its use in aquaculture

Abstract

In the past few decades, the major compelling force in the study of marine lipids has been the need of the developing aquaculture industry to understand the lipid nutritional requirements of farmed fish so as to optimize production. At present, there is also increased interest to include health-promoting nutrients (nutraceuticals) in farmed foods, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Conjugated linoleic acid, a group of positional and stereoisomers of linoleic acid (18:2), acts as a growth factor to promote a repartitioning of fat to lean, lower blood lipids, and shows anticarcinogenic, hypocholesterolaemic and antiatherogenic properties. In the present paper, we discuss current knowledge of the role of CLA in animal physiology and health and review advances in its application in fish aquaculture.