Pentadecanoic Acid (C15:0)
An odd-chain saturated fatty acid found in small amounts in whole dairy fat and some fish. C15:0 has been proposed as a newly essential fatty acid with roles in cell-membrane stability and mitochondrial function, and it is the active ingredient in fatty15.
Mechanism of Action
C15:0 integrates into cell membranes, increasing their stability and resistance to lipid peroxidation and iron-driven cell death (ferroptosis). In cell-based studies it has been reported to support mitochondrial function, activate AMPK, modulate mTOR signalling, and dampen inflammatory signalling, an activity profile that overlaps with several established metabolic and longevity compounds. Much of this mechanistic evidence is preclinical.
Latest Research
Reviewed Aug 13, 2026
C15:0 (pentadecanoic acid) is an odd-chain saturated fatty acid that researchers have proposed as a newly essential nutrient. A 2024 review (Metabolites) advanced a 'Cellular Stability Hypothesis': by embedding in cell membranes, C15:0 may protect against lipid peroxidation and iron-driven cell death (ferroptosis), with circulating levels around 0.2% of total fatty acids marking deficiency and roughly 0.4% or higher associated with better long-term health. In cell-based work (Nutrients, 2023), C15:0 supported mitochondrial function and reduced inflammatory signalling across many human cell systems, with an activity profile that overlapped several established metabolic and longevity compounds. A 2024 randomized, placebo-controlled trial (The Journal of Nutrition) examined C15:0 supplementation in young adults with overweight or obesity. These findings are early and much of the mechanistic data is preclinical; C15:0 is a nutrient, not a treatment for any disease. Discuss supplementation with your physician.
Available at Peak Human Shop
Shop fatty15 — pure C15:0 (pentadecanoic acid)Latest Evidence · Population Data
Circulating C15:0 by Longevity Zone & Age
Circulating C15:0 as % of total fatty acids. Deficiency risk at ≤0.2%; roughly 0.4%+ associated with long-term health. Venn-Watson, Metabolites, 2024.
Latest research
- Venn-Watson S, et al. Efficacy of dietary odd-chain saturated fatty acid pentadecanoic acid parallels broad associated health benefits in humans. Scientific Reports, 2020.
- Venn-Watson S, Schork NJ. Pentadecanoic Acid (C15:0) shares clinically relevant cell-based activities with leading longevity-enhancing compounds. Nutrients, 2023.
- Venn-Watson S. The Cellular Stability Hypothesis: pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) deficiency and accelerated aging. Metabolites, 2024.
- Pentadecanoic Acid Supplementation in Young Adults with Overweight and Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Nutrition, 2024.
Dosing Protocol
100 mg once dailymg
Standard starting dose based on research
Therapeutic Range
100
Minimum
300
Maximum
With a meal that contains some fat
Cycling Protocol
Not required; typically taken daily and ongoing.
Dosages are general guidelines. Individual requirements vary based on body weight, health status, and specific goals. Start with lower doses and adjust based on response.
Benefits
Primary Benefits
- Cell-membrane stability
- Mitochondrial support
- Metabolic and liver health markers
- Reduced inflammatory signalling (preclinical)
Secondary Benefits
Safety Information
Contraindications
Do not use if any of the following apply:
- •Known allergy to any product ingredient
Drug/Supplement Interactions
May interact with the following. Consult a healthcare provider before combining:
Potential Side Effects
Some users may experience:
This is not a complete list of interactions or side effects. Individual responses vary. Always start with the lowest effective dose and monitor your response. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider.
Quality Markers
Look for these specific quality indicators when sourcing this compound:
- Pure free-fatty-acid form of C15:0 (e.g., FA15)
- Third-party tested for purity
- Free of dairy and animal contaminants
Trusted Certifications
Note: Supplement quality varies dramatically between brands. Cheap supplements often contain fillers, incorrect doses, or contaminants. Investing in quality products from reputable manufacturers is essential for safety and efficacy.
Evidence Profile
Evidence Score
5/10
Moderate Evidence
Some clinical trials with positive results, emerging research
Evidence Scale
8-10
Strong
5-7
Moderate
1-4
Emerging
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