Detection of nitro-conjugated linoleic acid and nitro-oleic acid in virgin olive oil under gastric conditions: relationship to cultivar, fruit ripening, and polyphenol content.

ABSTRACT.- Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FAs) are being formed in virgin olive oil (VOO), exhibiting pleiotropic anti-inflammatory responses. We analyzed the fatty acid profile, polyphenols, pigments, and NO2-FA levels in two contrasting olive cultivars, Arbequina and Coratina, under two ripening conditions. During in vitro gastric conditions, the extent of nitro-conjugated linoleic acid and nitro-oleic acid in Coratina VOO was higher at the intermediate stage. In contrast, Arbequina VOO did not present changes on NO2-FA formation.