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International Journal of Molecular... Mar 2023High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) are known to enhance vascular function through different mechanisms, including the delivery of functional lipids to endothelial cells....
High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) are known to enhance vascular function through different mechanisms, including the delivery of functional lipids to endothelial cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that omega-3 (n-3) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content of HDLs would improve the beneficial vascular effects of these lipoproteins. To explore this hypothesis, we performed a placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial in 18 hypertriglyceridemic patients without clinical symptoms of coronary heart disease who received highly purified EPA 460 mg and DHA 380 mg, twice a day for 5 weeks or placebo. After 5 weeks of treatment, patients followed a 4-week washout period before crossover. HDLs were isolated using sequential ultracentrifugation for characterization and determination of fatty acid content. Our results showed that n-3 supplementation induced a significant decrease in body mass index, waist circumference as well as triglycerides and HDL-triglyceride plasma concentrations, whilst HDL-cholesterol and HDL-phospholipids significantly increased. On the other hand, HDL, EPA, and DHA content increased by 131% and 62%, respectively, whereas 3 omega-6 fatty acids significantly decreased in HDL structures. In addition, the EPA-to-arachidonic acid (AA) ratio increased more than twice within HDLs suggesting an improvement in their anti-inflammatory properties. All HDL-fatty acid modifications did not affect the size distribution or the stability of these lipoproteins and were concomitant with a significant increase in endothelial function assessed using a flow-mediated dilatation test (FMD) after n-3 supplementation. However, endothelial function was not improved in vitro using a model of rat aortic rings co-incubated with HDLs before or after treatment with n-3. These results suggest a beneficial effect of n-3 on endothelial function through a mechanism independent of HDL composition. In conclusion, we demonstrated that EPA and DHA supplementation for 5 weeks improved vascular function in hypertriglyceridemic patients, and induced enrichment of HDLs with EPA and DHA to the detriment of some n-6 fatty acids. The significant increase in the EPA-to-AA ratio in HDLs is indicative of a more anti-inflammatory profile of these lipoproteins.
Topics: Animals; Rats; Arachidonic Acid; Cross-Over Studies; Dietary Supplements; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Endothelial Cells; Fatty Acids; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Lipoproteins; Triglycerides; Humans
PubMed: 36982461
DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065390 -
Nutrients Nov 2023Fatty fish, which include mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines, and certain species of algae (e.g., sp., and ) are the only naturally rich sources of the omega-3... (Review)
Review
Fatty fish, which include mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines, and certain species of algae (e.g., sp., and ) are the only naturally rich sources of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (-3 PUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are the most biologically active members of the -3 PUFA family. Limited dietary sources and fluctuating content of EPA and DHA in fish raise concerns about the status of EPA and DHA among athletes, as confirmed in a number of studies. The beneficial effects of EPA and DHA include controlling inflammation, supporting nervous system function, maintaining muscle mass after injury and improving training adaptation. Due to their inadequate intake and beneficial health-promoting effects, athletes might wish to consider using supplements that provide EPA and DHA. Here, we provide an overview of the effects of EPA and DHA that are relevant to athletes and discuss the pros and cons of supplements as a source of EPA and DHA for athletes.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Dietary Supplements; Fishes; Athletes
PubMed: 38068783
DOI: 10.3390/nu15234925 -
Clinical Nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland) Dec 2023A balanced supply of arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may be crucial for quality of growth in preterm infants. This secondary analysis of a... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND & AIMS
A balanced supply of arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may be crucial for quality of growth in preterm infants. This secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial aimed to determine the effect of enhanced ARA and DHA supplementation on growth and body composition in infants born before 29 weeks of gestation. Furthermore, we aimed to study associations between human milk feeding, growth patterns and body composition.
METHODS
The ImNuT-trial randomized 121 infants to receive a daily supplement with medium chain triglycerides (control) or 100 mg/kg ARA and 50 mg/kg DHA (ARA:DHA group) from the second day of life until 36 weeks postmenstrual age. Growth and body composition were evaluated up to 3 months corrected age.
RESULTS
The ARA:DHA group showed better linear growth from birth to term equivalent age compared to the control group; mean difference in z score change from birth for length was 0.74 ([95% CI, 0.17-1.3]; p = 0.010). There were no differences in growth and body composition outcomes at 3 months corrected age between the groups. An increase in z score for weight after 36 weeks postmenstrual age and breastfeeding at 3 months corrected age were the strongest positive predictors of fat mass% at 3 months corrected age (both, p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION
Early enhanced supplementation of ARA and DHA may be beneficial with respect to somatic growth in very preterm infants.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION
The trial has been registered on www.
CLINICALTRIALS
gov, ID: NCT03555019.
Topics: Infant; Infant, Newborn; Humans; Infant, Premature; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Dietary Supplements; Arachidonic Acid; Milk, Human
PubMed: 37856920
DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2023.10.005 -
Nutrients Mar 2021The role of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) in neurogenesis and brain development throughout the life cycle is fundamental. DHA and AA are... (Review)
Review
The role of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) in neurogenesis and brain development throughout the life cycle is fundamental. DHA and AA are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) vital for many human physiological processes, such as signaling pathways, gene expression, structure and function of membranes, among others. DHA and AA are deposited into the lipids of cell membranes that form the gray matter representing approximately 25% of the total content of brain fatty acids. Both fatty acids have effects on neuronal growth and differentiation through the modulation of the physical properties of neuronal membranes, signal transduction associated with G proteins, and gene expression. DHA and AA have a relevant role in neuroprotection against neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, which are associated with characteristic pathological expressions as mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. The present review analyzes the neuroprotective role of DHA and AA in the extreme stages of life, emphasizing the importance of these LCPUFA during the first year of life and in the developing/prevention of neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
Topics: Aging; Arachidonic Acid; Brain; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Humans; Life Cycle Stages; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Neurogenesis; Neuroprotective Agents; Nutrients; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 33803760
DOI: 10.3390/nu13030986 -
European Review For Medical and... Jul 2020Although inflammation is protective of the body, uncontrolled acute inflammatory reactions may inflict tissue damage and lead to chronic inflammation. There is a... (Review)
Review
Although inflammation is protective of the body, uncontrolled acute inflammatory reactions may inflict tissue damage and lead to chronic inflammation. There is a fast-growing research interest in mechanisms that mediate regression of inflammation and actions of anti-inflammatory factors. Studies of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mechanisms have uncovered roles for new lipid mediators, including lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, and maresins, collectively referred to as specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPM). Maresins have recently been discovered and are biosynthesized from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by macrophages and display strong anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving activities. Here, we summarize the actions and mechanisms of maresins in different diseases and suggest possible therapeutic uses.
Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Humans; Inflammation; Inflammation Mediators; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 32706084
DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202007_21913 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jul 2023Cancer is a significant global public health issue and, despite advancements in detection and treatment, the prognosis remains poor. Cancer is a complex disease... (Review)
Review
Cancer is a significant global public health issue and, despite advancements in detection and treatment, the prognosis remains poor. Cancer is a complex disease characterized by various hallmarks, including dysregulation in apoptotic cell death pathways. Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process that efficiently eliminates damaged cells. Several studies have indicated the involvement of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in apoptosis, including omega-3 PUFAs such as alpha-linolenic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid. However, the role of omega-6 PUFAs, such as linoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, and arachidonic acid, in apoptosis is controversial, with some studies supporting their activation of apoptosis and others suggesting inhibition. These PUFAs are essential fatty acids, and Western populations today have a high consumption rate of omega-6 to omega-3 PUFAs. This review focuses on presenting the diverse molecular mechanisms evidence in both in vitro and in vivo models, to help clarify the controversial involvement of omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs in apoptosis mechanisms in cancer.
Topics: Humans; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Fatty Acids, Omega-6; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Apoptosis; Neoplasms
PubMed: 37511450
DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411691 -
Nutrients Jun 2021In this special issue, we have focused on the maternal docosahexaenoic acid, 22:6n-3 (DHA), on children's neurodevelopment [...].
In this special issue, we have focused on the maternal docosahexaenoic acid, 22:6n-3 (DHA), on children's neurodevelopment [...].
Topics: Breast Feeding; Child; Child Development; Dietary Supplements; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Female; Humans; Lactation; Nervous System Diseases
PubMed: 34199063
DOI: 10.3390/nu13072209 -
Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry :... Nov 2023Microglial cells play a crucial role in the development of neuroinflammation in response to harmful stimuli, such as infection, ischemia or injury. Their chronic...
BACKGROUND/AIMS
Microglial cells play a crucial role in the development of neuroinflammation in response to harmful stimuli, such as infection, ischemia or injury. Their chronic activation, however, is associated with a progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, looking for potential factors limiting microglial activation, the effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on the inflammatory response and TREM2-dependent phagocytic activity in microglia was investigated.
METHODS
In LPS-induced primary microglia preincubated with DHA, or without preincubation the expression of ATF3 and TREM2 genes and TREM2, Syk, Akt proteins were determined by RT-PCR and WB, respectively. Cell viability was assayed by MTT and cytokine and chemokine expression was determined by the Proteome Profiler assay. Moreover, the phagocytic activity of microglia was assayed using immunofluorescence.
RESULTS
We found that DHA significantly increased the expression of ATF3 , and decreased the levels of CINC-1, CINC-2αβ, CINC-3 chemokines, IL-1α and IL-1β cytokines, and ICAM-1 adhesion protein. Additionally, preincubation of microglia with DHA resulted in increased Src/Syk kinases activation associated with increased phagocytic microglia activity.
CONCLUSION
These findings indicate that DHA efficiently inhibits ATF3-dependent release of proinflammatory mediators and enhances phagocytic activity of microglia. The study provides a new mechanism of DHA action in reactive microglia, which may help limit neuronal damage caused by the pro-inflammatory milieu in the brain.
Topics: Humans; Microglia; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Lipopolysaccharides; Activating Transcription Factor 3; Phagocytosis; Cytokines; Inflammation
PubMed: 37962278
DOI: 10.33594/000000668 -
Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County,... Aug 2024Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of cancer cachexia. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs): eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are known to... (Review)
Review
Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of cancer cachexia. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs): eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are known to contribute to the reduction of inflammation, preservation of lean body mass and total body weight, and reduction of cancer-related symptoms, such as anorexia or neuropathy. This systematic review aimed to assess whether the ratio of EPA to DHA used in supplementation in cancer patients matters in the context of the resolution of inflammation and reduction of the risk of cachexia. The analysis included 20 randomized clinical trials with acceptable quality identified from the Pubmed/MEDLINE database. The significant results concerning the resolution of inflammation or improvement in nutritional status were the highest in the case of a low EPA/DHA ratio, i.e., 67%, and decreased, reaching 50% and 36% for the moderate and high ratios, respectively. Most results concerning body weight from high and moderate EPA/DHA ratios showed no benefit or were insignificant. A significant benefit in reducing any reported inflammatory markers was seen in the low EPA/DHA ratio subgroup at 63%, in the moderate at 29%, and in the high ratio subgroup at 11%. The greatest benefit in CRP reduction was obtained by patients during chemotherapy. The review questions the anticachectic and anti-inflammatory effect of ω-3 PUFAs supplementation with doses of EPA higher than DHA. A population that particularly benefits from ω-3 PUFAs supplementation are patients undergoing chemotherapy for advanced cancer.
Topics: Humans; Cachexia; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Neoplasms; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Inflammation; Dietary Supplements; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Nutritional Status
PubMed: 38759339
DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2024.112466 -
Marine Drugs Oct 2022Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex and progressive disease, which affects millions of people around the world. Despite the many efforts over the years to find... (Review)
Review
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex and progressive disease, which affects millions of people around the world. Despite the many efforts over the years to find efficient therapeutics, there is no cure yet. Nonetheless, many compounds have been proven to decrease Alzheimer's symptoms. After a short overview of the hypotheses considered in AD drug development and the drugs approved for AD treatment, which lead to symptom release, we focus on the valorization of natural marine sources that decrease AD symptoms, particularly on docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an important component in membrane phospholipids and the most abundant n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) found in gray matter of the brain and in retina and on the DHA-containing phospholipids (DHA-PLs) present in marine sources, namely fish, krill, mollusks and in fisheries and aquaculture by-products. DHA-PLs' bioactivities are presented, namely their properties in anti-neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, as anticancer agents, as well as their benefits to obesity and visual problems. Fisheries and aquaculture by-products are also highlighted as they have a high content of DHA and DHA-rich phospholipids, can be extracted by green methodologies and should be considered in a circular economy for a healthy sustainable future.
Topics: Animals; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Phospholipids; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Fish Oils; Euphausiacea; Alzheimer Disease
PubMed: 36354985
DOI: 10.3390/md20110662