Conjugated Linoleic Acid and the Atherosclerosis in Animal Models – Review

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) refers to a group of isomeric forms of linoleic acid (LA) containing two conjugated sites of unsaturation. During last 20 years, CLA has been the subject of investigations considered on its possible benefits on health. Both CLA isomers are found in products from ruminants because of the action of rumen micro-organisms in fatty acid biohydrogenation. The purpose of this review is to underline the potential for cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12 CLA to modify atherosclerosis, with focus on the rabbit, hamster and the mouse examples.