Oxidative Biotransformation (Use of LOXs and COXs)
PUFAs are excellent precursors for a variety of molecules in biological systems. Many of these bioconversions are initiated by the oxidative activation of the double bonds, producing intermediates in the form of hydroperoxide (due to action of lipoxygenases or LOXs) and endoperoxides (due to action of cyclooxygenases or COXs).

Hyperoxyl-PUFAs are transformed due to a cascade of reactions involving cyclases, lyases, dehydrases and peroxygenases, giving rise to (i) flavour and aroma compounds (feeding attractants, etc.), hormones, defence compounds and other physiologically active compounds (e.g. aldehydes, ketoacids, hydroxyacids, eicosanoids). Endoperoxides give rise to cyclic eicosanoids and related compounds, which fulfill regulatory, antimicrobial, reproductive and ecological roles.