Effect of low-to-moderate amounts of dietary fish oil on neutrophil lipid composition and function

Recent developments, challenges, and prospects of dietary omega-3 PUFA-fortified foods: Focusing on their effects on cardiovascular diseases

Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (Dω-3 PUFAs) have been extensively studied and have been proven to offer notable benefits for heart health. Scientific meta-analysis strongly endorses them as potent bioactive agents capable of preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Fortification of foods with Dω-3 PUFAs is a potential strategy for enhancing Dω-3 PUFA intake in an effort to continue strengthening public health outcomes. This review analyzed recent trends in the fortification of foods with Dω-3 PUFAs in relation to technological developments, challenges linked to the method, and future scope. Additionally, recent clinical trials and research on the effect of Dω-3 PUFA-fortified food consumption on cardiovascular health are reviewed. Technological trends in fortification methods, namely microencapsulation- and nanoencapsulation, have made considerable progress to date, along with excellent stability in both processing and storage conditions and favorable bioaccessibility and sensory attributes of fortified foods. There is a tremendous deal of promise for cardiovascular health based on recent clinical trial findings that fortifying food with Dω-3 PUFAs decreased the incidence of heart disease, blood pressure, and lipid profiles. In summary, substantial progress has been made in addressing the challenges of Dω-3 PUFA fortification. However, further multidisciplinary research is needed to inculcate effectiveness toward achieving the maximum possible Dω-3 PUFAs to protect against the harmful effects of CVDs and continue global health progress.

Effect of Short-Term Stress and Interaction of Salinity and Ammonia-N Levels, Associated With Food Deprivation on Fatty Acid Profile and Body Composition in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

High levels of nitrogen compounds can lead to acute toxicity in aquatic organisms. Ammonia, a by-product of protein breakdown, is the most prevalent contaminant in freshwater environments. Increasing salinity in water sources can cause fluctuations in salinity levels within breeding ponds. The interaction of these elements can occur in breeding ponds, significantly impacting the physiology and quality of the aquatic products. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between salinity and ammonia-N stress and their effects on the quality and fatty acid profile of tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus). The fish were divided into 12 distinct treatment groups, each characterized by varying salinity levels (0, 4, 8, and 12 ppt) and different concentrations of ammonia-N (0, 50% of 50% lethal concentration [LC50]-96 h, and 30% of LC50-96 h) arranged in a factorial design. The calculated LC50-96 h for ammonia-N was 0.86 mg/L. Significant increases were observed in cortisol and glucose levels associated with various salinity treatments and ammonia levels. The levels of carcass protein in the salinity treatments (4, 8, and 12 ppt) did not show any significant differences when compared to the control treatment. However, the protein percentage at 50% of LC50-96 h of ammonia-N was lower than that of the control treatment. In salinity treatments and ammonia levels (50% and 30% of LC50-96 h of ammonia-N), a significant increase in the percentage of lipid, highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was observed. To draw the conclusion, our assessment indicates that a salinity concentration of 8 ppt over a 96-h period without feeding has produced positive effects on the quality of tilapia carcasses.

The Cardioprotective Effects of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Depends on the Balance Between Their Anti- and Pro-Oxidative Properties

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are not only structural components of membrane phospholipids and energy storage molecules in cells. PUFAs are important factors that regulate various biological functions, including inflammation, oxidation, and immunity. Both n-3 and n-6 PUFAs from cell membranes can be metabolized into pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory metabolites that, in turn, influence cardiovascular health in humans. The role that PUFAs play in organisms depends primarily on their structure, quantity, and the availability of enzymes responsible for their metabolism. n-3 PUFAs, such as eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA), are generally known for anti-inflammatory and atheroprotective properties. On the other hand, n-6 FAs, such as arachidonic acid (AA), are precursors of lipid mediators that display mostly pro-inflammatory properties and may attenuate the efficacy of n-3 by competition for the same enzymes. However, a completely different light on the role of PUFAs was shed due to studies on the influence of PUFAs on new-onset atrial fibrillation. This review analyzes the role of PUFAs and PUFA derivatives in health-related effects, considering both confirmed benefits and newly arising controversies.

Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on the Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness after Cycling High Intensity Interval Training in Overweight or Obese Males

People with overweight or obesity preferred high-intensity interval training (HIIT) due to the time-efficiency and pleasure. However, HIIT leads to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). The present study aimed to investigate the effects of omega-3 supplementation on DOMS, muscle damage, and acute inflammatory markers induced by cycling HIIT in untrained males with overweight or obesity. A randomized, double-blinded study was used in the present study. Twenty-four males with a sedentary lifestyle were randomly assigned to either receive omega-3 (O3) (4 g fish oil) or placebo (Con). Subjects consumed the capsules for 4 weeks and performed cycling HIIT at the 4th week. After 4 weeks-intervention, the omega-3 index of O3 group increased by 52.51% compared to the baseline. All subjects performed HIIT at 4th week. The plasma creatine kinase (CK) level of Con group increased throughout 48h after HIIT. While the CK level of O3 group increased only immediately and 24h after HIIT and decreased at 48h after HIIT. The white blood cell count (WBC) of Con group increased immediately after the HIIT, while O3 group did not show such increase. There was no change of CRP in both groups. O3 group had a higher reduction of calf pain score compared to Con group. O3 group also showed a recovery of leg strength faster than Con group. Omega-3 supplementation for 4 weeks lower increased CK level, reduced calf pain score, and recovery leg strength, DOMS markers after cycling HIIT.

In Vivo Cellular Phosphatidylcholine Kinetics of CD15+ Leucocytes and CD3+ T-Lymphocytes in Adults with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Mammalian cell membranes composed of a mixture of glycerophospholipids, the relative composition of individual phospholipids and the dynamic flux vary between cells. In addition to their structural role, membrane phospholipids are involved in cellular signalling and immunomodulatory functions. In this study, we investigate the molecular membrane composition and dynamic flux of phosphatidylcholines in CD15+ leucocytes and CD3+ lymphocytes extracted from patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We identified compositional variations between these cell types, where CD15+ cells had relatively higher quantities of alkyl-acyl PC species and CD3+ cells contained more arachidonoyl-PC species. There was a significant loss of arachidonoyl-PC in CD3+ cells in ARDS patients. Moreover, there were significant changes in PC composition and the methyl-D9 enrichment of individual molecular species in CD15+ cells from ARDS patients. This is the first study to perform an in vivo assessment of membrane composition and dynamic changes in immunological cells from ARDS patients.

Anti-inflammatory Effect of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid N-Acylethanolamines Mediated by Macrophage Activity In Vitro and In Vivo

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in studying the anti-inflammatory activity of polyunsaturated fatty acid ethanolamides (N-acylethanolamines, NAE), which are highly active lipid mediators. The results of this study demonstrate that a dietary supplement (DS) of fatty acid-derived NAEs reduces LPS-induced inflammation. The processes of cell proliferation, as well as the dynamics of Iba-1-, CD68-, and CD163-positive macrophage activity within the thymus and spleen were studied. The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL1β, IL6, and INFγ), ROS, NO, and nitrites was evaluated in the blood serum, thymus, and LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 mouse macrophages. In vitro and in vivo experiments have shown that DS (1) prevents LPS-induced changes in the morphological structure of the thymus and spleen; (2) levels out changes in cell proliferation; (3) inhibits the activity of Iba-1 and CD68-positive cells; (4) reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL1β, IL6, and INFγ), ROS, and CD68; and (5) enhances the activity of CD-163-positive cells. In general, the results of this study demonstrate the complex effect of DS on inflammatory processes in the central and peripheral immune systems.

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Immunomodulatory Actions in Periodontal Disease

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are a diverse set of molecules with remarkable contributions to human physiology. They not only serve as sources of fuel but also cellular structural components as well as substrates that provide bioactive metabolites. A growing body of evidence demonstrates their role in inflammation. Inflammation in the presence of a polymicrobial biofilm contributes to the pathology of periodontitis. The role PUFAs in modulating immuno-inflammatory reactions in periodontitis is only beginning to be uncovered as research continues to unravel their far-reaching immunologic implications.

Fumonisin B Series Mycotoxins' Dose Dependent Effects on the Porcine Hepatic and Pulmonary Phospholipidome

Male weaned piglets n = 6/group were fed Fumonisin B₁₊₂₊₃ (FBs) mycotoxins at 0, 15, or 30 mg/kg diet for 3 weeks to assess the fatty acid (FA) composition of membrane lipid classes, lipid peroxidation, and histomorphological changes in the liver and lung. Growth performance and lipid peroxidation were unaltered, but histomorphological lesion scores increased in the liver. Linear dose-response was detected in liver phosphatidylcholines for C16:1n7, C18:1n9, and total monounsaturation and in lungs for C22:6n3, total n-3 and n-3:n-6, in pulmonary phosphatidylserines C20:0 and C24:0. Alterations associated with the highest FBs dose were detected in sphingomyelins (liver: total saturation ↓, total monounsaturation ↑), phosphatidylcholines (liver: total n-6 ↓, n-6:n-3 ↑; in lungs: total monounsaturation ↑, total polyunsaturation ↑), phosphatidylethanolamines (liver: total n-3 ↓; in lungs: total monounsaturation ↑ and n-6:n-3 ↑), phosphatidylserines (liver: n-6:n-3 ↑; in lungs: total saturation ↓, total polyunsatuartion ↑, and total n-6 and its ratio to n-3 ↑), and phosphatidylinositol (n-6:n-3 ↑; lungs: C22:1n9 ↑, C22:6n3 ↓, total saturation ↓, total monounsaturaion ↑). In conclusion, FBs exposures neither impaired growth nor induced substantial lipid peroxidation, but hepatotoxicity was proven with histopathological alterations at the applied exposure period and doses. FA results imply an enzymatic disturbance in FA metabolism, agreeing with earlier findings in rats.

Impact of health and lifestyle food supplements on periodontal tissues and health

According to the new classification, periodontitis is defined as a chronic multifactorial inflammatory disease associated with dysbiotic biofilms and characterized by progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting apparatus. This definition, based on the current scientific evidence, clearly indicates and emphasizes, beside the microbial component dental biofilm, the importance of the inflammatory reaction in the progressive destruction of periodontal tissues. The idea to modulate this inflammatory reaction in order to decrease or even cease the progressive destruction was, therefore, a logical consequence. Attempts to achieve this goal involve various kinds of anti-inflammatory drugs or medications. However, there is also an increasing effort in using food supplements or so-called natural food ingredients to modulate patients' immune responses and maybe even improve the healing of periodontal tissues. The aim of this chapter of Periodontology 2000 is to review the evidence of various food supplements and ingredients regarding their possible effects on periodontal inflammation and wound healing. This review may help researchers and clinicians to evaluate the current evidence and to stimulate further research in this area.

Effect of cow's milk with different PUFA n-6: n-3 ratios on performance, serum lipid profile, and blood parameters of grower gilts

The concern with human health has increased the interest in producing foods enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), directly or naturally, by inclusion in the animals' diet. The positive effects such as antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic have been observed in pigs and rats, used as human models for study. The present study evaluated the effect of cow's milk with different lipid profiles on performance, serum fatty acid profile, biochemical analysis, and a complete blood count of gilts used as a human model. At 34 days, thirty gilts were equally distributed in three treatments. Experimental treatments were milk from cows without the oil supplementation (C), milk from cows fed an enriched diet with linseed oil (n-3), and milk from cows fed an enriched diet with soybean oil (n-6). Milk supplementation was performed until 190 days old, provided once in the morning. The n-3 and n-6 milk reduced the concentration of myristic acid in the blood and increased the leukocytes. Milk enriched with n-3 compared to n-6 reduced the stearic acid. In conclusion, milk with a better PUFA profile can reduce saturated fatty acids in the blood and alter the concentration of cells in the defense system.

Regulation of Neutrophil Function by Marine n-3 Fatty Acids-A Mini Review

While normal functioning neutrophils contribute in various, critical ways to the maintenance of a stable immune system, their hypo- or hyper-activation has been implicated in the onset or exacerbation of multiple inflammatory conditions often affecting the vulnerable, aging population. As such, many would benefit from interventions capable of targeting neutrophils in disease-specific ways without disrupting their primary role in maintaining immune function. After consumption, marine omega-3 fatty acids are rapidly incorporated into the phospholipid bilayer of neutrophils, changing the fatty acid composition and consequently modifying neutrophil function. In addition to eicosanoid synthesis, the mechanisms by which marine n-3 fatty acids and their metabolites alter neutrophil function involve blockage of transcription factors that subsequently reduce pro-inflammatory gene expression by neutrophils and through the disruption of lipid rafts. In the current mini-review, a brief explanation of marine n-3 fatty acid metabolism is provided and the subsequent impact on neutrophil function is discussed. In addition, current evidence of the effects of marine n-3 fatty acid supplementation on neutrophil function from clinical trials conducted in the past 15 years is summarized.

Adjunct n-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Treatment in Tuberculosis Reduces Inflammation and Improves Anemia of Infection More in C3HeB/FeJ Mice With Low n-3 Fatty Acid Status Than Sufficient n-3 Fatty Acid Status

Populations at risk for tuberculosis (TB) may have a low n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) status. Our research previously showed that post-infection supplementation of n-3 long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) in TB without TB medication was beneficial in n-3 PUFA sufficient but not in low-status C3HeB/FeJ mice. In this study, we investigated the effect of n-3 LCPUFA adjunct to TB medication in TB mice with a low compared to a sufficient n-3 PUFA status. Mice were conditioned on an n-3 PUFA-deficient (n-3FAD) or n-3 PUFA-sufficient (n-3FAS) diet for 6 weeks before TB infection. Post-infection at 2 weeks, both groups were switched to an n-3 LCPUFA [eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] supplemented diet and euthanized at 4- and 14- days post-treatment. Iron and anemia status, bacterial loads, lung pathology, lung cytokines/chemokines, and lung lipid mediators were measured. Following 14 days of treatment, hemoglobin (Hb) was higher in the n-3FAD than the untreated n-3FAS group (p = 0.022), whereas the n-3FAS (drug) treated control and n-3FAS groups were not. Pro-inflammatory lung cytokines; interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.011), IL-1α (p = 0.039), MCP1 (p = 0.003), MIP1- α (p = 0.043), and RANTES (p = 0.034); were lower, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 (p = 0.002) and growth factor GMCSF (p = 0.007) were higher in the n-3FAD compared with the n-3FAS mice after 14 days. These results suggest that n-3 LCPUFA therapy in TB-infected mice, in combination with TB medication, may improve anemia of infection more in low n-3 fatty acid status than sufficient status mice. Furthermore, the low n-3 fatty acid status TB mice supplemented with n-3 LCPUFA showed comparatively lower cytokine-mediated inflammation despite presenting with lower pro-resolving lipid mediators.

Impact of nutraceuticals on markers of systemic inflammation: Potential relevance to cardiovascular diseases - A position paper from the International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP)

Inflammation is a marker of arterial disease stemming from cholesterol-dependent to -independent molecular mechanisms. In recent years, the role of inflammation in atherogenesis has been underpinned by pharmacological approaches targeting systemic inflammation that have led to a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Although the use of nutraceuticals to prevent CVD has largely focused on lipid-lowering (e.g, red-yeast rice and omega-3 fatty acids), there is growing interest and need, especially now in the time of coronavirus pandemic, in the use of nutraceuticals to reduce inflammatory markers, and potentially the inflammatory CVD burden, however, there is still not enough evidence to confirm this. Indeed, diet is an important lifestyle determinant of health and can influence both systemic and vascular inflammation, to varying extents, according to the individual nutraceutical constituents. Thus, the aim of this Position Paper is to provide the first attempt at recommendations on the use of nutraceuticals with effective anti-inflammatory properties.

Short- and Long-Term Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Fish Oil on Inflammatory Pain in Rats

INTRODUCTION

Dietary supplementation with fish oil is promising as a complementary therapy for inflammatory pain. However, further studies are needed to support its therapeutic potential. For example, the antinociceptive effect of fish oil is widely suggested to be dependent on decreased prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) synthesis, but no previous study has investigated if it affects PGE₂-induced nociceptive response. Similarly, beneficial long-term effects on inflammatory response are related to early exposure to fish oil, however, whether these effects include decreased inflammatory pain throughout life is not known.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the short- and long-term effects of fish oil on inflammatory pain.

METHODS

Dietary fish oil supplementation was performed through two protocols: in adult rats, during 20 days, or in dams, during pregnancy and lactation, with tests performed in adult offspring. The hyperalgesic response induced by carrageenan and its final mediators PGE₂ and norepinephrine was used to model inflammatory pain.

RESULTS

The findings demonstrated for the first time that dietary fish oil (1) decreases the hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan; (2) but not that induced by its final mediator PGE₂ and norepinephrine; (3) increase omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in peripheral neural tissue; and (4) attenuates inflammatory pain in individuals exposed to fish oil during pre-natal life and lactation.

CONCLUSION

Together, these findings support that fish oil decreases inflammatory pain either when consumed during adult life or during prenatal development. Future studies should confirm the therapeutic potential of fish oil in humans, which is essential for the development of public policies to encourage a fish oil richer diet.

The Manipulation of the Lipid Mediator Metabolism as Adjunct Host-Directed Therapy in Tuberculosis

Host-directed therapies (HDTs) enhance the host response to tuberculosis (TB) infection to reduce disease severity. For instance, the manipulation of lipid mediator production diminishes the hyperactive immune response which is a known pathological feature of TB that generates lung tissue damage. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) are examples of such HDTs. In this mini-review, we recapitulate the literature available on the effects of NSAIDs and n-3 LCPUFA in TB as well as the immunological pathways underpinning these effects. Many NSAIDs have a great deal of data describing their effects and safety and in many jurisdictions are inexpensive, and sold over the counter in neighborhood convenience stores and supermarkets. The potential benefits of NSAIDs in TB are well-documented in pre-clinical studies. The reduction of pro-inflammatory lipid mediator production by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways with NSAIDs has been found to improve lung histopathology, bacterial control, and survival. Additionally, n-3 LCPUFA and its novel bioactive metabolites produced by COX and lipoxygenase (LOX) have been identified as safe and effective pro-resolving and antibacterial pharmaconutrients. Nevertheless, heterogeneous results have been reported in pre-clinical TB studies. Recently, the importance of the correct timing of NSAIDs and n-3 LCPUFA administration in TB has also been highlighted. This mini-review will provide a better understanding of the potential contribution of these therapies toward reducing inflammatory lung damage and improving bactericidal activity, especially during later stages of TB infection. It further highlights that clinical trials are required to confirm benefit and safety in TB patients.

Fish Oil Enriched in EPA, but Not in DHA, Reverses the Metabolic Syndrome and Adipocyte Dysfunction Induced by a High-Fat Diet

This study aimed to investigate the effects of two commercially available fish oils (FOs) containing different proportions of two omega-3 fatty acids (FA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on the metabolic and endocrine dysfunctions of white adipose tissue resulting from obesity. Male C57BL/6J mice, 8 weeks old, received a control or high-fat diet (CO and HF groups, with 9% and 59% energy from fat, respectively) for 8 weeks. The next 8 weeks, the HF group was subdivided into HF, HF+FO/E (HF+5:1 EPA:DHA), and HF+FO/D (HF+5:1 DHA:EPA). Supplementation was performed by gavage, three times a week. All groups that received the HF diet had lower food and caloric intake, but a higher fat intake, body weight (BW) gain, glucose intolerance, and a significant increase in inguinal (ING), retroperitoneal (RP), and epididymal (EPI) adipose tissues when compared to the CO group. Additionally, HF and HF+FO/D groups showed insulin resistance, adipocyte hypertrophy, increased lipolysis and secretion of TNF-α, resistin and IL-10 adipokines by ING and RP adipocytes, and adiponectin only by the HF+FO/D group in ING adipocytes. All of these effects were completely reversed in the HF+FO/E group, which also showed partial reversion in BW gain and glucose intolerance. Both the HF+FO/E and HF+FO/D groups showed a reduction in ING and RP adipose depots when compared to the HF group, but only HF+FO/E in the EPI depot. HF+FO/E, but not HF+FO/D, was able to prevent the changes triggered by obesity in TNF-α, Il-10, and resistin secretion in ING and RP depots. These results strongly suggest that different EPA:DHA ratios have different impacts on the adipose tissue metabolism, FO being rich in EPA, but not in DHA, and effective in reversing the changes induced by obesity.

Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (LCPUFAs) and the Developing Immune System: A Narrative Review

The immune system is complex: it involves many cell types and numerous chemical mediators. An immature immune response increases susceptibility to infection, whilst imbalances amongst immune components leading to loss of tolerance can result in immune-mediated diseases including food allergies. Babies are born with an immature immune response. The immune system develops in early life and breast feeding promotes immune maturation and protects against infections and may protect against allergies. The long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are considered to be important components of breast milk. AA, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA are also present in the membranes of cells of the immune system and act through multiple interacting mechanisms to influence immune function. The effects of AA and of mediators derived from AA are often different from the effects of the n-3 LCPUFAs (i.e., EPA and DHA) and of mediators derived from them. Studies of supplemental n-3 LCPUFAs in pregnant women show some effects on cord blood immune cells and their responses. These studies also demonstrate reduced sensitisation of infants to egg, reduced risk and severity of atopic dermatitis in the first year of life, and reduced persistent wheeze and asthma at ages 3 to 5 years, especially in children of mothers with low habitual intake of n-3 LCPUFAs. Immune markers in preterm and term infants fed formula with AA and DHA were similar to those in infants fed human milk, whereas those in infants fed formula without LCPUFAs were not. Infants who received formula plus LCPUFAs (both AA and DHA) showed a reduced risk of allergic disease and respiratory illness than infants who received standard formula. Studies in which infants received n-3 LCPUFAs report immune differences from controls that suggest better immune maturation and they show lower risk of allergic disease and respiratory illness over the first years of life. Taken together, these findings suggest that LCPUFAs play a role in immune development that is of clinical significance, particularly with regard to allergic sensitisation and allergic manifestations including wheeze and asthma.

Infusion time for fish oil-containing parenteral emulsions in surgery: A study on ω-3 fatty acid dynamics in rats

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to contribute to the design of specialized parenteral nutrition protocols in surgery by evaluating the dynamics of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) concentrations in different body pools after the infusion of fish oil-containing lipid emulsion (FOLE) in rats that had undergone surgical central venous catheterization (CVC).

METHODS

After 5-d adaptation in metabolic cages, 78 male Lewis rats (300-450 g) fed a standard diet were sacrificed (baseline control) or had only CVC (surgical control) or also received a 72-h infusion of a parenteral lipid emulsion with or without fish oil. The catheterized animals were sacrificed 0 (T0), 2 (T2), 6 (T6), and 12 h (T12) after the infusion ended. Gas chromatography was used to determine the concentrations of eicosapentaenoic (EPA), docosahexaenoic (DHA), and arachidonic (ARA) acids and the ω-3 to ω-6 ratio in plasma, liver, and blood leukocytes. Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon tests were applied to plasma and liver data and descriptive analysis to leukocyte data.

RESULTS

Plasma, liver, and leukocytes exhibited almost undetectable EPA and DHA and detectable ARA concentrations at baseline. Immediately after FOLE infusion (T0), these PUFAs changed in all pools, resulting in a higher ratio of ω-3 to ω-6 compared with rats with no FOLE infusion (P < 0.05). All these changes decreased over time, with residual effects remaining until T6 in plasma, T12 in liver, and only until T2 in leukocytes.

CONCLUSION

Data from this study suggest that ω-3 PUFAs are cleared early after the end of FOLE infusion, mainly in leukocytes. This should be considered when FOLEs are applied for immunomodulatory purposes in surgery.

The effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on inflammatory factors in HIV-infected patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

High concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) and inflammatory markers are common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients and are associated with non-HIV related comorbidity and mortality. Data on the benefits of omega-3 fatty acid (omega-3 FA) supplementation for improving inflammation status in HIV-infected patients are controversial. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the beneficial effects of omega-3 FAs on controlling inflammation in HIV-infected patients. We conducted a comprehensive search of the major biomedical databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane library, for all potentially relevant studies published without restriction from the beginning of time to June 2020. Overall, nine RCTs were included comprising a total of 427 participants. A random-effects model was used to calculate 95% confidence intervals (CI) and the effect was measured as standardized mean difference (SMD). Supplementation of omega-3 FAs showed a significant reduction of CRP (SMD: -0.27, 95% CI: -0.48 to -0.07, P = 0.007). There was no significant difference in levels of TNF-α (SMD: 0.03, 95% CI: -0.79 to 0.85, P = 0.94, I² = 87%) and IL-6 (SMD: -0.13, 95% CI: -0.59 to 0.32, P = 0.57, I² = 73%, Fig. 3). The results indicate that the supplementation of omega-3 FAs in HIV-infected patients significantly decreases serum CRP levels when compared to the control group, however has no significant effect on IL-6 and TNF-α levels.

n-3 PUFA and inflammation: from membrane to nucleus and from bench to bedside

Inflammation is a normal part of the immune response and should be self-limiting. Excessive or unresolved inflammation is linked to tissue damage, pathology and ill health. Prostaglandins and leukotrienes produced from the n-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid are involved in inflammation. Fatty acids may also influence inflammatory processes through mechanisms not necessarily involving lipid mediators. The n-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA possess a range of anti-inflammatory actions. Increased content of EPA and DHA in the membranes of cells involved in inflammation has effects on the physical nature of the membranes and on the formation of signalling platforms called lipid rafts. EPA and DHA interfere with arachidonic acid metabolism which yields prostaglandins and leukotrienes involved in inflammation. EPA gives rise to weak (e.g. less inflammatory) analogues and both EPA and DHA are substrates for the synthesis of specialised pro-resolving mediators. Through their effects on early signalling events in membranes and on the profile of lipid mediators produced, EPA and DHA alter both intracellular and intercellular signals. Within cells, this leads to altered patterns of gene expression and of protein production. The net result is decreased production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, proteases and enzymes. The anti-inflammatory and inflammation-resolving effects of EPA and DHA are relevant to both prevention and treatment of human diseases that have an inflammatory component. This has been widely studied in rheumatoid arthritis where there is good evidence that high doses of EPA + DHA reduce pain and other symptoms.

Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on immune, health and growth variables in veal calves

Under the present intensive rearing conditions, calves face a series of stressors and multiple pathogens often necessitating antimicrobial use. Multiple feed additives are currently explored for their ability to prevent disease and limit the use of antimicrobials. Supplementation of the polyunsaturated long chain n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docohexaenoic (DHA) from marine origin has been proposed as a strategy to improve immune function and prevent excessive inflammation reactions. The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to explore the effects of n-3 fatty acids (PUFAs) used as feed supplement on health, production and immune variables in a veal calf setting. One hundred-seventy calves were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups: microalgae (MA, n = 57, 2.5 g DHA/animal/day), fish oil (FO, n = 57, 2.5 g EPA + DHA/animal/day)] and a control group (CON, n = 56). Average daily gain (ADG), bodyweight at 12 weeks on feed and slaughter weight were determined. Health monitoring consisted of recording of clinical signs and repeated thoracic ultrasonography. After 5, 8 and 11 weeks of supplementation, the function of neutrophils, monocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was evaluated ex vivo by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by neutrophils and monocytes and proliferation of and cytokine release by PBMCs. Under the field conditions of this study, dietary supplementation of MA and FO showed very limited immunomodulatory effects. Feeding MA led to increased ROS production by neutrophils, Estimate (E) = 0.38, Standard Error (SE) = 0.14; P < 0.05, compared to the control calves after 5 weeks of in-feed supplementation. FO reduced IL-6 secretion E= -0.29, SE= 0.11; P < 0.05 compared to MA treated animals after 11 weeks on feed. Health and production variables were unaffected by treatments. The doses of EPA and DHA used in this study did not cause immunomodulatory changes in highly stressed calves to such an extent that this led to better health or growth of animals.

Effect of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on resolvin (RvE1)-mediated suppression of inflammation in a mouse model of asthma

Objective: ResolvinE1 (RvE1), an endogenous lipid mediator derived from omega 3 fatty acids contributes to resolution of allergic inflammatory responses. We investigated effects of RvE1 (R) and omega 3 fatty acids (O) on airway reactivity and inflammation using allergic mice. Methods: Mice were divided into control (nonasthmatic; CON) and allergen sensitized-challenged (asthmatic; SEN) groups, and were sensitized i.p. on days 1, 6 with 0.2 μg ovalbumin (OVA) followed by 5% OVA aerosol challenges on days 11-13. RvE1 was administered i.p. postallergen challenge, while omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil) were administered via oral gavage once daily (days 1-13). Whole body plethysmography and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) studies were performed on day 14. Results: RvE1 attenuated airway responsiveness to methacholine (48 mg/ml) in treated asthmatic mice vs. nontreated (150 ± 27.88% in SEN vs. 54 ± 7.52% in SEN + R, p < .05). No difference was observed with omega-3 supplementation (115 ± 19.28% in SEN + O) or treatment with both RvE1 and omega 3 fatty acids (39 ± 12.37% in SEN + R + O vs. 54 ± 7.52% in SEN + R). Differential BAL cell analysis showed that RvE1 decreased eosinophils and neutrophils in SEN mice (p < .005) while no difference was observed with omega-3 fatty acids. SEN + R + O group had similar results as RvE1 treated mice, suggesting that only RvE1 attenuated inflammation. Conclusions: RvE1 attenuated airway responsiveness and inflammation in asthmatic mice. Omega-3 fatty acids, although a precursor for RvE1 formation, had no additive effects on RvE1 decreases in airway inflammation and airway reactivity. Our data suggests that omega-3 supplementation has little effect on airway inflammation and reactivity in our model of asthma.

The effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the newborn rat hyperoxic lung injury

Objective: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is an important cause of morbidity in preterms. Inflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of the disease while omega-3 fatty acids are known to have anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we examined the effects of supplementary omega-3 fatty acids on hyperoxic lung injury.Methods: Experimental hyperoxic lung injury induced newborn 3-day-old rats were monitored in a confined hyperoxic environment with an oxygen concentration of 90-95% for a 2-week period. Rats were divided into three groups as placebo, low-dose Omega-3, and high-dose Omega-3. During the 2-week study period, low and high-dose Omega-3 groups were given 300 and 600 mg/kg/day omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) respectively, while those in placebo received the same amount of serum physiologic. At the end of the 2-week study, lungs of all the rats were removed and morphologic evaluation under light microscopy was performed. Mean cord length (L_m), alveolar surface area (S_A), and alveolar wall thickness (W_t) were calculated to find out whether a statistically significant difference between groups existed.Results: Similar alveolar development was observed between groups. No difference was seen between mean L_m values. Although the alveolar surface area was found to be higher in high-dose omega-3 group, the difference was not considered to be statistically significant. While the widest alveolar wall thickness was observed in the placebo group, alveolar wall thickness difference between high-dose omega-3 group and placebo group was found to be statistically significant (placebo W_t=17,8 ± 2.3 µm, low-dose omega -3 W_t=15,6 ± 2,5 µm, high-dose omega -3 W_t=14,2 ± 2 µm) (p < .05).Conclusions: Omega-3 fatty acids were observed to prevent alveolar wall thickness to some extent, though with no noticeable effect on hyperoxic lung injury.

Effects of supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy on asthma or wheeze of children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy on the incidence of wheeze and asthma of children.Methods: A search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL until September 2017. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy on wheeze/asthma of children were included. Two investigators independently searched articles, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. Outcomes of relative risks were pooled. Subgroup analyses were conducted.Results: Seven RCTs involving 2047 children were included. The pooled data revealed the supplementation during pregnancy reduced the incidence of wheeze/asthma (risk ratio (RR) 0.81; 95% CI 0.66-0.99; p .04), but the incidence of childhood asthma was not significantly reduced (RR 0.89; 95% CI 0.67-1.17; p .40). Subgroup analyses indicated that the risk of childhood wheeze/asthma was significantly decreased (1) in studies located in Europe (RR 0.67 95% CI 0.51- 0.88), (2) in children whose first-degree relatives were diagnosed with allergic disease (RR 0.65 95% CI 0.49-0.85), (3) when a dose of omega -3 fatty acids ≥2000 mg/d was applied (RR 0.61 95% CI 0.45-0.81), (4) in wheeze/asthma without sensitivity (RR 0.71 95% CI 0.54-0.94).Conclusion: The available low-quality evidence indicated that omega-3 fatty acids supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the incidence of wheeze/asthma of children, but incidence of asthma was not reduced after omega-3 fatty acids supplementation during pregnancy. More well-designed RCTs with large sample sizes need to be conducted to better understand the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation during pregnancy with asthma in childhood.

A randomised controlled trial of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the management of rotator cuff related shoulder pain

Study design

Multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial.

Objectives

To compare the effectiveness of long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) as part of the management for people diagnosed with rotator cuff related shoulder pain (RCRSP).

Summary of background

Although there is no robust evidence to support their use, omega-3 PUFAs have been recommended for those with tendinopathy due to their potential to moderate inflammation.

Methods

Participants with RCRSP (n=73) were randomised to take either nine MaxEPA capsules providing 1.53 g eicosapentaenoic acid, 1.04 g docosahexaenoic acid or nine matching placebo capsules containing oleic acid per day for 8 weeks. In addition, participants attended an exercise/education programme for 8 weeks. Participants were assessed at prerandomisation, 8 weeks (primary outcome point), 3 months, 6 months and 12 months (secondary outcome point). Primary outcome was the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS). Secondary outcomes included the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Patient Specific Functional Score, Euro Qol 5D-3L, Short Form 36, global rating of change and impairment measurements. Analysis was by intention to treat.

Results

Difference in the change in the OSS between the two groups at 2 months was –0.1 (95% CI −2.6 to 2.5, p=0.95). The change in SPADI scores was −8.3 (95% CI −15.6 to −0.94, p=0.03, analysed by analysis of covariance adjusted for baseline) at 3 months.

Conclusion

 Omega-3 PUFA supplementation may have a modest effect on disability and pain outcomes in RCRSP.

Relative quantification of deuterated omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and their lipid turnover in PC12 cell membranes using TOF-SIMS

Understanding FA metabolism and lipid synthesis requires a lot of information about which FAs and lipids are formed within the cells. We focused on the use of deuterated substrates of 100 μM α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid to determine the relative amounts of their converted PUFAs and specific phospholipids that are incorporated into cell plasma membranes. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) was used to image and analyze lipids in model cell membranes with and without FA treatment. Because of its high spatial resolution, TOF-SIMS can be used to simultaneously provide both chemical information and distribution of various molecules in the sample surface down to the subcellular scale. Data obtained from this analysis of isotopes in the cell samples were used to calculate the relative amounts of long-chain PUFAs and phospholipids from their precursors, α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid. Our results show that the FA treatments induced an increase in the amounts of α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid and their long-chain conversion products. Moreover, an enhanced level of phospholipid turnover of these FAs in lipids such as phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines, and phosphatidylinositols was also observed in the cell plasma membrane.

Omega-6 fatty acids and inflammation

Inflammation is a normal process that is part of host defence and tissue healing. However, excessive or unresolved inflammation can lead to uncontrolled tissue damage, pathology and disease. In humans on a Western diet, the omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid arachidonic acid (ARA) makes a significant contribution to the fatty acids present in the membrane phospholipids of cells involved in inflammation. ARA is a precursor to a number of potent pro-inflammatory mediators including well described prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which has led to the development of anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals that target the ARA pathway to successfully control inflammation. Hence, it is commonly believed that increasing dietary intake of the omega-6 fatty acids ARA or its precursor linoleic acid (LA) will increase inflammation. However, studies in healthy human adults have found that increased intake of ARA or LA does not increase the concentrations of many inflammatory markers. Epidemiological studies have even suggested that ARA and LA may be linked to reduced inflammation. Contrastingly, there is also evidence that a high omega-6 fatty acid diet inhibits the anti-inflammatory and inflammation-resolving effect of the omega-3 fatty acids. Thus, the interaction of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and their lipid mediators in the context of inflammation is complex and still not properly understood.

Oxidative stress and immunosenescence in spleen of obese mice can be reversed by 2-hydroxyoleic acid

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? Evidence is growing for the link between obesity, immune dysfunction and oxidative stress, but it is still not known how the properties and functions of the spleen and splenic leucocytes are affected. What is the main finding and its importance? Obesity led to premature immunosenescence, manifested as oxidative stress and changes in leucocyte functions in mouse spleen. The oleic acid derivative 2-hydroxyoleate and, to a lesser extent, a combination of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids could reverse most of the observed alterations, suggesting a potential therapeutic tool for obesity-related immune dysfunction and redox imbalance. We aimed to investigate the effects of obesity on oxidative stress and leucocyte function in the mouse spleen and to assess whether supplementation with 2-hydroxyoleic acid (2-OHOA) or n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) could reverse those effects. Female ICR/CD1 mice (8 weeks old, n = 24) received an obesogenic diet (22% fat for 4 weeks and 60% fat for 14 weeks). After 6 weeks, mice were divided into the following three groups (n = 8 per group): no supplementation; 2-OHOA supplementation (1500 mg kg^-1 of diet); and n-3 PUFA supplementation (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, 1500 + 1500 mg kg^-1 of diet). Eight mice were fed the standard diet for the whole duration of the study (control group). At the end of the experiment, the following variables were assessed in spleens: levels of reduced (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), GSH/GSSG, xanthine oxidase activity, lipid peroxidation, lymphocyte chemotaxis, natural killer activity and mitogen (concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide)-induced lymphocyte proliferation. Obese animals presented higher GSSG levels (P = 0.003), GSSG/GSH ratio (P = 0.013), lipid peroxidation (P = 0.004), xanthine oxidase activity (P = 0.015) and lymphocyte chemotaxis (P < 0.001), and lower natural killer activity (P = 0.003) and proliferation in response to concanavalin A (P < 0.001) than control mice. 2-Hydroxyoleic acid totally or partly reversed most of the changes (body weight, fat content, GSSG levels, GSH/GSSG, lipid peroxidation, chemotaxis and proliferation, all P < 0.05), whereas n-3 PUFAs reversed the increase in xanthine oxidase activity (P = 0.032). In conclusion, 2-OHOA or, to a lesser extent, n-3 PUFAs could ameliorate the oxidative stress and alteration of leucocyte function in the spleens of obese mice. Our findings support a link between obesity and immunosenescence and suggest a potential therapeutic tool for obesity-related immune dysfunction.

Very long-chain n-3 fatty acids and human health: fact, fiction and the future

EPA and DHA appear to be the most important n-3 fatty acids, but roles for n-3 docosapentaenoic acid are now also emerging. Intakes of EPA and DHA are usually low, typically below those recommended. Increased intakes result in higher concentrations of EPA and DHA in blood lipids, cells and tissues. Increased content of EPA and DHA modifies the structure of cell membranes and the function of membrane proteins. EPA and DHA modulate the production of lipid mediators and through effects on cell signalling can alter the patterns of gene expression. Through these mechanisms, EPA and DHA alter cell and tissue responsiveness in a way that often results in more optimal conditions for growth, development and maintenance of health. DHA has vital roles in brain and eye development and function. EPA and DHA have a wide range of physiological roles, which are linked to certain health or clinical benefits, particularly related to CVD, cancer, inflammation and neurocognitive function. The benefits of EPA and DHA are evident throughout the life course. Future research will include better identification of the determinants of variation of responses to increased intake of EPA and DHA; more in-depth dose-response studies of the effects of EPA and DHA; clearer identification of the specific roles of EPA, docosapentaenoic acid and DHA; testing strategies to enhance delivery of n-3 fatty acids to the bloodstream; and exploration of sustainable alternatives to fish-derived very long-chain n-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man

Inappropriate, excessive or uncontrolled inflammation contributes to a range of human diseases. Inflammation involves a multitude of cell types, chemical mediators and interactions. The present article will describe nutritional and metabolic aspects of omega-6 (n-6) and omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids and explain the roles of bioactive members of those fatty acid families in inflammatory processes. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are n-3 fatty acids found in oily fish and fish oil supplements. These fatty acids are capable of partly inhibiting many aspects of inflammation including leucocyte chemotaxis, adhesion molecule expression and leucocyte–endothelial adhesive interactions, production of eicosanoids like prostaglandins and leukotrienes from the n-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, EPA gives rise to eicosanoids that often have lower biological potency than those produced from arachidonic acid, and EPA and DHA give rise to anti-inflammatory and inflammation resolving mediators called resolvins, protectins and maresins. Mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory actions of EPA and DHA include altered cell membrane phospholipid fatty acid composition, disruption of lipid rafts, inhibition of activation of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor κB so reducing expression of inflammatory genes and activation of the anti-inflammatory transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ. Animal experiments demonstrate benefit from EPA and DHA in a range of models of inflammatory conditions. Human trials demonstrate benefit of oral n-3 fatty acids in rheumatoid arthritis and in stabilizing advanced atherosclerotic plaques. Intravenous n-3 fatty acids may have benefits in critically ill patients through reduced inflammation. The anti-inflammatory and inflammation resolving actions of EPA, DHA and their derivatives are of clinical relevance.

Can Early Omega-3 Fatty Acid Exposure Reduce Risk of Childhood Allergic Disease?

A causal link between increased intake of omega-6 (n-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and increased incidence of allergic disease has been suggested. This is supported by biologically plausible mechanisms, related to the roles of eicosanoid mediators produced from the n-6 PUFA arachidonic acid. Fish and fish oils are sources of long chain omega-3 (n-3) PUFAs. These fatty acids act to oppose the actions of n-6 PUFAs particularly with regard to eicosanoid synthesis. Thus, n-3 PUFAs may protect against allergic sensitisation and allergic manifestations. Epidemiological studies investigating the association between maternal fish intake during pregnancy and allergic outcomes in infants/children of those pregnancies suggest protective associations, but the findings are inconsistent. Fish oil provision to pregnant women is associated with immunologic changes in cord blood. Studies performed to date indicate that provision of fish oil during pregnancy may reduce sensitisation to common food allergens and reduce prevalence and severity of atopic eczema in the first year of life, with a possible persistence until adolescence. A recent study reported that fish oil consumption in pregnancy reduces persistent wheeze and asthma in the offspring at ages 3 to 5 years. Eating oily fish or fish oil supplementation in pregnancy may be a strategy to prevent infant and childhood allergic disease.

Treatment with DHA/EPA ameliorates atopic dermatitis-like skin disease by blocking LTB4 production

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is caused by both dysregulated immune responses and an impaired skin barrier. Although leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is involved in tissue inflammation that occurs in several disorders, including AD, therapeutic strategies based on LTB4 inhibition have not been explored. Here we demonstrate that progression of an AD-like skin disease in NC/Nga mice is inhibited when docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is administered together with FK506. Treatment with DHA/EPA and FK506 decreases the clinical score of dermatitis in NC/Nga mice and lowers local LTB4 concentrations. The treatment also suppressed the infiltration of T cells, B cells, eosinophils and neutrophils, and promoted reduced serum IgE levels. Secretion of IL-13 and IL-17A in CD4(+) T cells was lower in DHA/EPA- and FK506-treated mice than in mice treated with FK506 alone. The inhibition of disease progression induced by DHA/EPA was reversed by local injection of LTB4, suggesting that the therapeutic effect of DHA/EPA is LTB4-dependent. Our results demonstrate that treatment of AD with DHA/EPA is effective for allergic skin inflammation and acts by suppressing LTB4 production. J. Med. Invest. 63: 187-191, August, 2016.

Combinations of distinct long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid species for improved dietary treatment against allergic bronchial asthma

Allergic bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways with an increasing incidence in Western societies. Exposure to allergens provokes recurrent attacks of breathlessness, airway hyperreactivity, wheezing, and coughing. For the early phase and milder forms of allergic asthma, dietary supplementation with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA), predominantly fish oil-associated eicosapentaenoic (C20:5 ω-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6 ω-3), and distinct crop oil-derived fatty acids might provide a sustainable treatment strategy, as discussed in several studies. In addition to immune-controlling prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes, specialized proresolving mediators, such as lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, and maresins, are metabolized from different LCPUFA, which actively resolve inflammation. The aim of this review was to discuss the possible synergistic effects of ω-3 and ω-6 LCPUFA combinations concerning rebuilding fatty acid homeostasis in cellular membranes, modifying eicosanoid metabolic pathways, controlling inflammatory processes by focusing on resolving inflammation in the bronchoalveolar system on the cellular level, and helping to control clinical symptoms in bronchial asthma.

Conducting omega-3 clinical trials with cardiovascular outcomes: Proceedings of a workshop held at ISSFAL 2014

In contrast to earlier long-chain (LC) omega-3 (i.e. EPA and DHA) investigations, some recent studies have not demonstrated significant effects of EPA and DHA on cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes. The neutral findings may have been due to experimental design issues, such as: maintenance on aggressive cardiovascular drug treatment overshadowing the benefits of LC omega-3s, high background LC omega-3 intake, too few subjects in the study, treatment duration too short, insufficient LC omega-3 dosage, increase in omega-6 fatty acid intake during the study, failure to assess the LC omega-3 status of the subjects prior to and during treatment and lack of clarity concerning which mechanisms were expected to produce benefits. At the 11th ISSFAL Congress, a workshop was held on conducting LC omega-3 clinical trials with cardiovascular outcomes, with the goal of gaining a better understanding concerning aspects of experimental design that should be considered when planning clinical studies related to EPA and DHA and potential cardiovascular benefits.

Omega-3 fatty acids as an adjunct for periodontal therapy-a review

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article is to present an overview of omega-3 fatty acids, their anti-inflammatory properties and potential use as an adjunct for periodontal therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A general literature search was conducted to provide an overview of omega-3 fatty acids, their metabolism and anti-inflammatory properties. A more specific literature search of PubMed and EMBASE was conducted to identify articles dealing studies investigating the effects of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of periodontitis in animals and humans and included cross-sectional, longitudinal and intervention designs.

RESULTS

To date, there is good emerging evidence that dietary supplementation with fish oil may be of some benefit and this is enhanced if combined with aspirin. All clinical intervention studies to date have been on small sample sizes, and this indicates there is need for larger and more robust clinical trials to verify these initial findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary supplementation with fish oil could be a cost-effective adjunctive therapy to the management of periodontal disease.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The host modulatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids warrant further assessment of their use as an adjunct in the management of periodontitis.

Membrane fatty acid heterogeneity of leukocyte classes is altered during in vitro cultivation but can be restored with ad-hoc lipid supplementation

Background

The cell membrane is a primary and fundamental player in most cellular processes, and fatty acids form a major structural component of cell membranes. The aim of this study was to compare the membrane fatty acid profiles of different human blood leukocytes and selected cell lines, to identify the effects of in vitro culture on fatty acid profiles, and to test medium supplements for their effect on fatty acid profiles.

Methods

Different classes of leukocytes were isolated from human blood and their membrane fatty acid profiles were analysed and compared. After culturing in vitro immortalised and primary leukocytes, membrane fatty acids were analysed and compared. Finally, different lipid formulations were developed and used for supplementing leukocytes in vitro in an effort to maintain the in vivo fatty acid profile. Descriptive and analytical tests were performed to compare the obtained fatty acid profiles.

Results

Membrane fatty acid profiles of primary human CD4⁺ T-lymphocytes, CD8⁺ T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes and monocytes differed. Moreover, there were differences among Jurkat, Raji and THP-1 cell lines and the corresponding primary leukocyte classes, as well as between freshly prepared and in vitro cultured primary lymphocytes. A lipid supplement was able to maintain cultured Jurkat cells with a membrane fatty acid profile almost identical to that of the primary CD4⁺ T-lymphocytes. Finally, variations in the lipid supplement composition enabled the development of Jurkat cells with different membrane fatty acid profiles characterising different physiological or pathological human conditions.

Conclusions

Each leukocyte class has its own specific membrane fatty acid profile in vivo. Cultured primary leukocytes and immortalized leukocytic cells display different membrane fatty acid profiles when compared to their respective in vivo counterparts. The membrane fatty acid composition of cultured cells can be restored to reflect that of the corresponding in vivo condition through use of optimised lipid supplementation. Typical physiological or pathological leukocyte membrane fatty acid profiles can be obtained by tuning in vitro fatty acid supplementation.

Combined omega-3 fatty acids, aerobic exercise and cognitive stimulation prevents decline in gray matter volume of the frontal, parietal and cingulate cortex in patients with mild cognitive impairment

Previous studies in older adults suggested beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acid (FA) supplementation, aerobic exercise, or cognitive stimulation on brain structure and function. However, combined effects of these interventions in patients suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are unknown. Using a randomized interventional design, we evaluated the effect of combined omega-3 FA supplementation, aerobic exercise and cognitive stimulation (target intervention) versus omega-3 FA supplementation and non-aerobic exercise (control intervention) on cognitive function and gray matter volume in patients with MCI. Moreover, we analyzed potential vascular, metabolic or inflammatory mechanisms underlying these effects. Twenty-two MCI patients (8 females; 60-80years) successfully completed six months of omega-3 FA intake, aerobic cycling training and cognitive stimulation (n=13) or omega-3 FA intake and non-aerobic stretching and toning (n=9). Before and after the interventions, cognitive performance, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain at 3T (n=20), intima-media thickness of the internal carotid artery and serum markers of glucose control, lipid and B-vitamin metabolism, and inflammation were assessed. Intervention-related changes in gray matter volume of Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related brain regions, i.e., frontal, parietal, temporal and cingulate cortex were examined using voxel-based morphometry of high resolution T1-weighted images. After the intervention period, significant differences emerged in brain structure between groups: Gray matter volume decreased in the frontal, parietal and cingulate cortex of patients in the control intervention, while gray matter volume in these areas was preserved or even increased after the target intervention. Decreases in homocysteine levels in the target intervention group were associated with increases in gray matter volume in the middle frontal cortex (p=0.010). No significant differences in cognitive performance or other vascular, metabolic and inflammatory parameters were observed between groups. This pilot study provides preliminary evidence that omega-3 FA intake combined with aerobic exercise and cognitive stimulation prevents atrophy in AD-related brain regions in MCI patients, compared to omega-3 FA intake plus the control condition of stretching and toning. These promising findings should now be validated in a larger interventional trial.