Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Status Research Articles

Co-exposure to 55 endocrine-disrupting chemicals linking diminished sperm quality: Mixture effect, and the role of seminal plasma docosapentaenoic acid

Isolated effects of single endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on male reproductive health have been studied extensively, but their mixture effect remains unelucidated. Previous research has suggested that consuming diet enriched in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) might be beneficial for reproductive health, whether omega-3 PUFA could moderate the effect of EDCs mixture on semen quality remains to be explored. In this study of 155 male recruited from a reproductive health center in China, we used targeted-exposomics to simultaneously measure 55 EDCs in the urine for exposure burden. Regression analyses were restricted to highly detected EDCs (≥55%, n = 34), and those with consistently elevated risk were further screened and brought into mixture effect models (Bisphenol A, ethyl paraben, methyl paraben [MeP], benzophenone-1 [BP1], benzophenone-3, mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate [MCPP]). Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) and quantile-based g-computation (QGC) models demonstrated that co-exposure to top-ranked EDCs was related to reduced sperm total (β = −0.18, 95%CI: −0.29 – −0.07, P = 0.002) and progressive motility (β = −0.27, 95%CI: −0.43 – −0.10, P = 0.002), but not to lower semen volume. BP1, MeP and MCPP were identified as the main effect driver for deteriorated sperm motion parameters using mixture model analyses. Seminal plasma fatty acid profiling showed that high omega-3 PUFA status, notably elevated docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, C22:5n-3) status, moderated the association between MCPP and sperm motion parameters (total motility: β = 0.26, 95%CI: 0.01 – −0.51, Pinteraction = 0.047; progressive motility: β = 0.64, 95%CI: 0.23 – 1.05, Pinteraction = 0.003). Co-exposure to a range of EDCs is mainly associated with deteriorated sperm quality, but to a lesser extent on sperm quantity, high seminal plasma DPA status might be protective against the effect. Our work emphasizes the importance of exposomic approach to assess chemical exposures and highlighted a new possible intervention target for mitigating the potential adverse effect of EDCs on semen quality.

Low omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid status predicts reduced response to standard antidepressants in patients with major depressive disorder

The mammary epithelium undergoes several rounds of extensive proliferation during the female reproductive cycle. Its expansion is a tightly regulated process, fueled by the mammary stem cells and these cells' unique property of self-renewal. Sufficient new cells have to be produced to maintain the integrity of a tissue, but excessive proliferation resulting in tumorigenesis needs to be prevented. Three well-known tumor suppressors, p53, p16INK4a, and p19ARF, have been connected to the limiting of stem cell self-renewal and proliferation. Here we investigate the roles of these three proteins in the regulation of self-renewal and proliferation of mammary epithelial cells. Using mammary epithelial-specific mouse models targeting Trp53 and Cdkn2a, the gene coding for p16INK4a and p19ARF, we demonstrate that p53, p16INK4a, and p19ARF do not play a significant role in the limitation of normal mammary epithelium self-renewal and proliferation, whereas in the presence of the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α, Trp53−/− Cdkn2a−/− mammary basal cells exhibit amplified proliferation.

MON-129 Analysis of Omega3 PUFAs Status Among the Female and Male Population of the Moscow Region

INTRODUCTION:All humans have levels of EPA+DHA that if methodologically correctly assessed in erythrocytes, are optimal more than 8%. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are permanent subjects of interest not only in relation to the protection of cardiovascular health and the prevention of the incidence of both ventricular and atrial arrhythmias, but also many serious health issues that can be prevented by optimal levels. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess in a retrospective study the omega-3 PUFAs status at Moscow region according age and sex.SUBJECTS AND METHODS:In this retrospective study, the records of 1349 patients who presented with various complaints in the period from 2013 to 2017 aged 1 to 91 were examined. Fatty acids within the red blood cell membranes were analyzed as methyl ethers after trans-esterification with sodium methylate using GC-MS followed by omega-3 index calculation.RESULTS:Deficiency of omega-3 PUFAs was found in 68.5% of patients. The most severe deficiency was noted in children and adolescents aged 0 to 17 years (in girls to a greater extent). In age groups of 18–44 and 45–59 years, the prevalence of severe (<4%) and moderate (4–8%) deficiency was comparable in males and females: among 18–44-year-old men severe deficiency was noted in 5.6%, moderate – in 29.4%, at the age of 45–59 years – in 7 and 23%, respectively; among women – 6.4, 24.4, 8.4 and 20%, respectively. In the age group of 60-74 years, prevalence of severe deficiency was significantly higher in men, who had severe deficiency in 9.2% of cases, whereas in women of the same age it was found only in 4.8% of cases, the prevalence of moderate deficiency is 23 and 23.8%, respectively.CONCLUSIONS:Such high prevalence of severe omega-3 PUFA deficiency in girls under 17 is likely due to girls’ and their parents’ concerns about weight, diet and veganism, and requires the inclusion of omega-3 index analysis in adolescent girls’ screening. Thus, during the most important period – the period of puberty – 25% of girls have metabolic and hypoxic disorders due to deficiency of omega-3 PUFA and are at risk of not only diseases associated with metabolic disorders, but also reproductive disorders (infertility, miscarriage, fetal malformations). The obtained data is indicative of the necessity to choose dosages of omega-3 PUFAs, considering not only the patients age, but also their gender.

Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in pregnancy-baseline omega-3 status and early preterm birth: exploratory analysis of a randomised controlled trial.

To identify a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) biomarker able to detect which women with singleton pregnancies are most likely to benefit from omega-3 supplementation to reduce their risk of early preterm birth. Exploratory analysis of a randomised controlled trial. Six Australian hospitals. Women with a singleton pregnancy enrolled in the ORIP trial. Using maternal capillary whole blood collected ~14weeks' gestation, the fatty acids in total blood lipids were quantified using gas chromatography. Interaction tests examined whether baseline PUFA status modified the effect of omega-3 supplementation on birth outcomes. Early preterm birth (<34weeks' gestation). A low total omega-3 PUFA status in early pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of early preterm birth. Among women with a total omega-3 status ≤4.1% of total fatty acids, omega-3 supplementation substantially reduced the risk of early preterm birth compared with control (0.73 versus 3.16%; relative risk=0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07-0.79). Conversely, women with higher total omega-3 status in early pregnancy were at lower risk of early preterm birth. Supplementing women with a baseline status above 4.9% increased early preterm birth (2.20 versus 0.97%; relative risk=2.27, 95% CI 1.13-4.58). Women with singleton pregnancies and low total omega-3 PUFA status early in pregnancy have an increased risk of early preterm birth and are most likely to benefit from omega-3 supplementation to reduce this risk. Women with higher total omega-3 status are at lower risk and additional omega-3 supplementation may increase their risk. Low total omega-3 fat status helps identify which women benefit from extra omega-3 to reduce early prematurity.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids status and cognitive function in young women

BackgroundResearch indicates that low omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) may be associated with decreased cognitive function. This study examined the association between n-3 PUFA status and cognitive function in young Australian women.MethodsThis was a secondary outcome analysis of a cross-sectional study that recruited 300 healthy women (18–35 y) of normal weight (NW: BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2) or obese weight (OB: BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2). Participants completed a computer-based cognition testing battery (IntegNeuro™) evaluating the domains of impulsivity, attention, information processing, memory and executive function. The Omega-3 Index (O3I) was used to determine n-3 PUFA status (percentage of EPA (20:5n-3) plus DHA (22:6n3) in the red cell membrane) and the participants were divided into O3I tertile groups: T1 < 5.47%, T2 = 5.47–6.75%, T3 > 6.75%. Potential confounding factors of BMI, inflammatory status (C-reactive Protein), physical activity (total MET-min/wk), alpha1-acid glycoprotein, serum ferritin and hemoglobin, were assessed. Data reported as z-scores (mean ± SD), analyses via ANOVA and ANCOVA.ResultsTwo hundred ninety-nine women (26.9 ± 5.4 y) completed the study (O3I data, n = 288). The ANOVA showed no overall group differences but a significant group × cognition domain interaction (p < 0.01). Post hoc tests showed that participants in the low O3I tertile group scored significantly lower on attention than the middle group (p = 0.01; ES = 0.45 [0.15–0.74]), while the difference with the high group was borderline significant (p = 0.052; ES = 0.38 [0.09–0.68]). After confounder adjustments, the low group had lower attention scores than both the middle (p = 0.01) and high (p = 0.048) groups. These findings were supported by univariate analyses which found significant group differences for the attention domain only (p = 0.004).ConclusionsCognitive function in the attention domain was lower in women with lower O3I, but still within normal range. This reduced but normal level of cognition potentially provides a lower baseline from which cognition would decline with age. Further investigation of individuals with low n-3 PUFA status is warranted.

Omega-3 Index and Anti-Arrhythmic Potential of Omega-3 PUFAs.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are permanent subjects of interest in relation to the protection of cardiovascular health and the prevention of the incidence of both ventricular and atrial arrhythmias. The purpose of this updated review is to focus on the novel cellular and molecular effects of omega-3 PUFAs, in the context of the mechanisms and factors involved in the development of cardiac arrhythmias; to provide results of the most recent studies on the omega-3 PUFA anti-arrhythmic efficacy and to discuss the lack of the benefit in relation to omega-3 PUFA status. The evidence is in the favor of omega-3 PUFA acute and long-term treatment, perhaps with mitochondria-targeted antioxidants. However, for a more objective evaluation of the anti-arrhythmic potential of omega-3 PUFAs in clinical trials, it is necessary to monitor the basal pre-interventional omega-3 status of individuals, i.e., red blood cell content, omega-3 index and free plasma levels. In the view of evidence-based medicine, it seems to be crucial to aim to establish new approaches in the prevention of cardiac arrhythmias and associated morbidity and mortality that comes with these conditions.

Determinants of fluid intelligence in healthy aging: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid status and frontoparietal cortex structure

Introduction: Accumulating evidence indicates that cognitive decline depends not only upon changes in brain health, but critically, also upon nutritional status. Decline in fluid intelligence, one of the most debilitating aspects of cognitive aging, has been linked to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) status; however, it is not known whether this phenomenon results from specific omega-3 PUFAs acting on particular aspects of brain health. Therefore, this study aims to explore whether particular patterns of omega-3 PUFAs influence fluid intelligence by supporting specific neural structures.Methods: We measured six plasma phospholipid omega-3 PUFAs, fluid intelligence, and regional gray matter volume in the frontal and parietal cortices in 100 cognitively intact older adults (65–75 years old). A four-step mediation analysis was implemented using principal component analysis and multivariate linear regressions, adjusted for age, gender, education, and body mass index.Results: The mediation analysis revealed that one pattern of omega-3 PUFAs, consisting of alpha-linolenic acid, stearidonic acid, and eicosatrienoic acid, was linked to fluid intelligence, and that total gray matter volume of the left frontoparietal cortex (FPC) fully mediated the relationship between this omega-3 PUFA pattern and fluid intelligence.Discussion: These data demonstrate that fluid intelligence may be optimally supported by specific omega-3 PUFAs through preservation of FPC gray matter structure in cognitively intact older adults. This report provides novel evidence for the benefits of particular omega-3 PUFA patterns on fluid intelligence and underlying gray matter structure.

Associations Between Whole Blood and Dietary Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Levels in Collegiate Athletes.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have important physiological functions and may offer select benefits for athletic performance and recovery. The purpose of this investigation was to assess dietary and whole blood omega-3 PUFAs among collegiate athletes. In addition, a brief questionnaire was evaluated as a valid tool for quantifying omega-3 PUFA intake. Fifty-eight athletes (9 males, 49 females) completed a 21-item questionnaire developed to assess omega-3 PUFA intake and provided dried whole blood samples to quantify α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and the HS-Omega-3 Index. Geometric means (95% confidence intervals) for the HS-Omega-3 Index were 4.79% (4.37-5.25%) and 4.75% (4.50-5.01%) for males and females, respectively. Median dietary intakes of ALA, EPA, and DHA were all below 100 mg. Among females, several dietary omega-3 PUFA variables were positively associated with whole blood EPA, with total EPA (rho = 0.67, p < .001) and total DHA (rho = 0.69, p < .001) intakes showing the strongest correlations. Whole blood DHA among females showed positive associations with dietary intakes, with total EPA (rho = 0.62, p < .001) and total DHA (rho = 0.64, p < .001) intakes demonstrating the strongest correlations. The HS-Omega-3 Index in females was positively correlated with all dietary variables except ALA. Among males, the only significant correlation was between food and whole blood EPA (rho = 0.83, p < .01). Collegiate athletes had relatively low intakes of omega-3 PUFAs. A 21-item questionnaire may be useful for screening female athletes for poor omega-3 PUFA status.

The role for dietary omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in older adults.

Optimal nutrition is one of the most important determinants of healthier ageing, reducing the risk of disability, maintaining mental and physical functions, and thus preserving and ensuring a better quality of life. Dietary intake and nutrient absorption decline with age, thus increasing the risk of malnutrition, morbidity and mortality. Specific nutrients, particularly long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), might have the potential of preventing and reducing co-morbidities in older adults. Omega-3 PUFAs are able to modulate inflammation, hyperlipidemia, platelet aggregation, and hypertension. Different mechanisms contribute to these effects, including conditioning cell membrane function and composition, eicosanoid production, and gene expression. The present review analyzes the influence of omega-3 PUFAs status and intake on brain function, cardiovascular system, immune function, muscle performance and bone health in older adults. Omega-3 FAs may have substantial benefits in reducing the risk of cognitive decline in older people. The available data encourage higher intakes of omega-3 PUFAs in the diet or via specific supplements. More studies are needed to confirm the role of omega-3 FAs in maintaining bone health and preventing the loss of muscle mass and function associated with ageing. In summary, omega-3 PUFAs are now identified as potential key nutrients, safe and effective in the treatment and prevention of several negative consequences of ageing.

Improvement of Major Depression is Associated with Increased Erythrocyte DHA

The aim of this study was to determine if changes in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid status following tuna oil supplementation correlated with changes in scores of depression. A total of 95 volunteers receiving treatment for major depression were randomised to consume 8×1g capsules per day of HiDHA (2g DHA, 0.6g EPA and 10mg Vitamin E) or olive oil (placebo) for 16weeks, whilst undergoing weekly counseling sessions by trained clinical psychologists using a standard empirically validated psychotherapy. Depression status was assessed using the 17 item Hamilton rating scale for depression and the Beck Depression Inventory by a psychodiagnostician who was blind to the treatment. Blood was taken at baseline and 16weeks (n=48) for measurement of erythrocyte fatty acids. With HiDHA supplementation, erythrocyte DHA content rose from 4.1±0.2 to 7.9±0.4% (mean±SEM, p<0.001) of total fatty acids but did not change (4.0±0.2 to 4.1±0.2%) in the olive oil group. The mean changes in scores of depression did not differ significantly between the two groups (-12.2±2.1 for tuna oil and -14.4±2.3 for olive oil). However, analysis of covariance showed that in the fish oil group there was a significant correlation (r=-0.51) between the change in erythrocyte DHA and the change in scores of depression (p<0.05). Further study of the relationship between DHA and depression is warranted.

Aggressive dogs are characterized by low omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid status

Canine aggressive behaviour is one of the most common problems being reported by dog owners. However, the biochemical basis of this phenomenon remains unclear. In humans, alterations in omega-3 plasma polyunsatured fatty acids and elevated omega6/omega-3 ratio have been linked to behavioural alterations, including aggression. Thus far, however, the relationship between plasma polyunsatured fatty acid status and aggression has not been investigated in the dog. In the present study we sought to investigate whether polyunsatured fatty acid status could be altered in plasma of pathologically aggressive Canis familiaris. Eighteen adult male German Shepherd dogs, aged 4.9 +/- 0.9 years, showing no clinical signs but aggression, were investigated. Eighteen healthy male dogs, aged 4.8 +/- 0.7 years, with a negative history of behavioural and neurological disorders served as controls. Baseline fasting plasma polyunsatured fatty acid composition was determined by gas chromatography. Compared to normal dogs, aggressive dogs showed lower docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 n-3) concentrations and a higher omega6/omega-3 ratio. In addition, they showed reduced cholesterol and bilirubin concentrations compared to their normally behaving counterparts. Altogether, our results suggest that low omega-3 fatty acids may adversely impact behaviour in dogs, resulting in greater propensity to aggression. However, given the cross-sectional design of our study, we cannot claim any causal relationship between the presence of alterations in fatty acid status and canine aggressiveness. Whether omega-3 fatty acids supplementation may be useful to reduce aggressive behaviour in the dog deserves further investigation.