What is "palmitoleic acid"

n. (context fatty acid English) An unsaturated fatty acid, having 16 carbon atoms and one double bond, found in the adipose tissue of all animals

Palmitoleic acid, or (9Z)-hexadec-9-enoic acid, is an omega-7 monounsaturated fatty acid with the formula CH(CH)CH=CH(CH)COOH that is a common constituent of the glycerides of human adipose tissue. It is present in all tissues but, in general, found in higher concentrations in the liver. It is biosynthesized from palmitic acid by the action of the enzyme delta-9 desaturase. A beneficial fatty acid, it has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity by suppressing inflammation, as well as inhibit the destruction of insulin-secreting pancreatic beta cells.