Arachidonic acid (AA, sometimes ARA) is an omega-6 fatty acid , and is involved in cellular signaling as a second messenger. A second messenger, in cell physiology, is a molecule which activates effector proteins within the cell to stimulate cellular response.

The following are properties of arachidonic acid which have positive impact on bodybuilding:

•  It is known for its ‘cascade effect', whereby this acid acts as a precursor to the production of eiconosoids and their derivatives. Among these derivatives are the prostaglandins, which are group of lipid compounds that fulfill several important functions in bodybuilding.

•  It is a precursor in the upregulation of testosterone, insulin, and IGF-1.

•  It activates hormones to exert their respective mode action to repair fibers that are damaged by training via an increased rate of protein synthesis and other anabolic steroids processes.