Wax Esters: Chemistry and Biosynthesis

Abstract

Wax esters are unique surface lipids found on the surface of terrestrial organisms. After a brief review of the composition, the mechanisms used in their biosynthesis by sebaceous glands are summarized. The molecular biology of biosynthesis of methyl-branched, short chain and very long chain acids, and the biochemical mechanism of the loss of the carboxyl carbon of the elongated very long chain acids to generate alkanes are reviewed. The molecular biology of biosynthesis of the major types of molecules contains the hydroxyl group(s) to which the acids are esterified and the molecular biology of the esterification process are reviewed. The molecular bases of seasonal and hormonal regulation of biosynthesis of wax esters that implicate some functions of the wax esters are reviewed. Core Messages• Wax esters are unique surface lipids found on the surface of terrestrial organisms.• These unusual lipids that coat the surface of animals offer unique biochemical challenges that are associated with skin health issues.

Effects of genotype, sex, and feed restriction on the biochemical composition of chicken preen gland secretions and their implications for commercial poultry production

“…It is generally assumed that preening itself ( Goldstein, 1988 ) and the synthesis of predominantly waxy compounds into preen secretions are energy-demanding processes ( Sweeney et al, 2004 ; Kolattukudy, 2015 ) and therefore only individuals in good physical condition may fully invest in the production of preen secretions. This has been supported by studies that have found reduced preen gland volume in ­immunocompetent individuals ( Piault et al, 2008 ; Moreno-Rueda, 2015 ), individuals with coccidian and malaria infection ( Pap et al, 2013 ; Magallanes et al, 2016 ), higher microbial loads in plumage ( Jacob et al, 2014 ; Fulop et al, 2016 ) or having poor body condition ( Moreno-Rueda, 2010 , 2015 , 2016 ).…”