Understanding Tricosanoic Acid: Normal vs Optimal Ranges
Also known as: c23:0, 23:0 fatty acid, very-long-chain saturated fatty acid
?What is Tricosanoic Acid?
Tricosanoic acid is a saturated very-long-chain fatty acid (C23:0) found in small amounts in food and produced endogenously through fatty acid elongation. It is measured as a biomarker of metabolic function and fatty acid metabolism, particularly in the context of peroxisomal and mitochondrial function. Elevated levels may suggest abnormalities in fatty acid oxidation or related metabolic disorders.
!Why It Matters
Tricosanoic acid levels can provide insight into the body's ability to metabolise very-long-chain fatty acids, a process dependent on functional mitochondria and peroxisomes. Atypical tricosanoic acid concentrations may be associated with inherited metabolic disorders, mitochondrial dysfunction, or metabolic syndrome. Monitoring this marker alongside other lipid and metabolic markers helps assess overall metabolic health and fatty acid handling.
Reference Ranges
| Range Type | Min | Max | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lab Normal | — | — | µmol/L | Standard lab reference range |
| Optimal | — | — | µmol/L | Evidence-based optimal range for health |
| Longevity Target | — | — | µmol/L | Per longevity medicine research (Attia et al.) |
Lab normal ranges may vary between laboratories. Optimal and longevity targets are based on research literature and should be interpreted with your physician.
Symptoms of Imbalance
- Unexplained fatigue or low energy
- Cognitive difficulties or brain fog
- Muscle weakness or myopathy
- Neurological symptoms
- Metabolic syndrome features
How to Improve Your Levels
- 1Optimise dietary fat intake, focusing on medium-chain and short-chain fatty acids
- 2Support mitochondrial function through adequate CoQ10 and carnitine intake
- 3Ensure sufficient intake of B vitamins, particularly B2 and B5, which support fatty acid oxidation
- 4Maintain regular physical activity to enhance metabolic flexibility
- 5Reduce refined carbohydrates and ultra-processed foods
- 6Consult a functional medicine practitioner if levels remain elevated despite lifestyle measures
When to Test
When investigating unexplained fatigue, neurological symptoms, or suspected metabolic or mitochondrial disorders; as part of comprehensive lipid and metabolic assessment in individuals with metabolic syndrome; or when family history suggests inherited fatty acid oxidation disorders.
Related Biomarkers
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