Nervonic acid
[CAS# 506-37-6]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Fatty acid
• Name: Nervonic acid
• Synonyms: cis-15-Tetracosenoic acid; Selacholeic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₂₄H₄₆O₂
• Molecular Weight: 366.62
• CAS Registry Number: 506-37-6
• EC Number: 610-549-3
• SMILES: CCCCCCCC/C=C\CCCCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)O

Properties

• Density: 0.9±0.1 g/cm³ Calc.^*
• Melting point: 42 - 43 ºC (Expl.)
• Boiling point: 479.2±14.0 ºC 760 mmHg (Calc.)^*
• Flash point: 375.8±15.2 ºC (Calc.)^*, 110 ºC (Expl.)
• Index of refraction: 1.468 (Calc.)^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovory and Applicatios

Nervonic acid is a long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid with the chemical structure 24:1, denoting 24 carbon atoms and one double bond at the Δ15 position. It was first isolated in the early 20th century from the seed oils of plants such as Lunaria annua and Malania oleifera, where it naturally occurs as part of the glycerolipid fraction. It was named “nervonic” because of its high abundance in the sphingolipids of the nervous system, particularly in the white matter of the brain and the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. Early studies established its importance in nerve function and myelin formation, highlighting its role in the maintenance and regeneration of neural tissue.

Nervonic acid is biosynthesized in plants via the elongation of oleic acid through a series of enzymatic reactions involving elongases that add two-carbon units sequentially. In the human body, it is not synthesized in significant amounts and must therefore be obtained through dietary sources or supplementation for potential therapeutic benefits. Its unique structure, with a very long hydrocarbon chain and a single double bond, contributes to its function in maintaining membrane fluidity and integrity in myelin-producing cells.

The primary application of nervonic acid is related to neurology and developmental health. It is used as a dietary supplement aimed at supporting brain development, cognitive function, and nerve repair. Clinical studies have investigated its potential in neurodegenerative conditions, demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis, and cognitive disorders, although the research is still emerging. Nervonic acid is often incorporated into infant formula or specialized nutritional products to support myelin synthesis during early neural development.

In the industrial context, nervonic acid is extracted from natural plant oils rich in very long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids, such as Malania oleifera seed oil, and purified for use in nutraceuticals. Its chemical properties, including low reactivity and stability under standard storage conditions, make it suitable for incorporation into lipid-based formulations. Research also explores its potential in lipidomics, as it is a key component of sphingomyelin and other sphingolipids, which are critical in cell signaling, apoptosis regulation, and membrane architecture.

Beyond nutrition and neuroscience, nervonic acid has potential applications in cosmetic and dermatological formulations, given its role in maintaining lipid barrier integrity in skin and hair. Its ability to integrate into lipid membranes and contribute to the structural properties of sphingolipids may enhance skin hydration and resilience. Additionally, nervonic acid is being investigated in experimental pharmacology for its potential to modulate inflammatory pathways and support nerve regeneration after injury.

Overall, nervonic acid is a biologically significant fatty acid with a rich history of discovery and a growing spectrum of applications. Its association with myelin synthesis and nerve health underpins its use in dietary supplements, infant nutrition, and potential therapeutic interventions. Continued research into its biochemical roles and effects on neural and systemic health supports the expanding interest in this long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid for both clinical and nutritional applications.

References

2025. Synthesis of novel resveratrol nervonic acid ester using a solvent-free mechanochemical method: Improved lipophilicity, thermostability, and oxidation stability. Food Chemistry.
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.143958

2025. Nervonic acid and 15-epi-PGA1 mediate systemic mitochondrial dysfunction in AD dementia. GeroScience.
DOI: 10.1007/s11357-025-01776-6

2025. Integrated metabolome and microbiome strategy reveals the therapeutic effect of nervonic acid on Alzheimer's disease rats. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109813