Nutraceuticals World (NW): What is oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and what is its biological function?

Dr. Daniele Piomelli, University of California, Chair in Neurosciences and Distinguished Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Pharmacology, and Biological Chemistry: Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) is a bioactive lipid mediator that is normally present in the human body, where it plays key roles in the regulation of energy homeostasis. It contributes to weight management by promoting satiety, enhancing lipolysis in adipose tissue, and increasing fatty acid oxidation in hepatic and muscular tissues. Additionally, OEA exhibits anti-inflammatory effects within the gastrointestinal tract, which may further support metabolic health and body weight regulation. Its mechanism of action involves the activation of two receptors deeply involved in metabolic control: PPAR-a and GPR-119. PPAR-a promotes satiety, lipolysis, and fatty acid oxidation, while GPR-119 stimulates GLP-1 secretion, which further reduces appetite and controls post-meal blood sugar.