N-Acylethanolamine accumulation in infarcted myocardium

Long-chain N-acylethanolamines were found at levels of 400–500 nmol per g tissue in the infarcted areas of canine myocardium 24 hours after coronary artery ligation. Peripheral infarct areas also contained substantial amounts (200 nmol/g) while apparently normal heart muscle contained very little (< 10 nmol/g). The amide linked fatty acids were mainly 16:0, 18:0, 18:1 and 18:2. Because of its anti-inflammatory activity, N-acylethanolamine may exert beneficial effects in the infarcted area and may be produced as a response to ischemic injury.