[In vitro study of delta 6- and delta 5-desaturations of linoleic and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acids during the development of arterial hypertension as a function of age in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) as compared to normotensive rats (WKY)].

delta 6- and delta 5-desaturations of linoleic [1(14)C] or dihomo-gamma-linolenic [2(14)C] acids are partially inhibited, in vitro, in liver microsomes of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) comparatively to normotensive rats (WKY). The inhibition is more light when the animals are young and the blood hypertension not well established. These results are particularly important, for these desaturations are fundamental steps in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins precursors, prostaglandins and their original fatty acids being involved in blood pressure regulation.