Use Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Research Articles

Effect Administration of Omega-3, Omega-6 and Synthetic Cholesterol on Reproductive Characteristic of Male Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

The bird is one of the most important sources of animal protein for people and smallholders in developing countries. However, it is also important to look at their reproductive activity to maintain a sustainable population. Omega-3, omega-6 fatty acid and synthetic cholesterol may improve reproductive characteristics in animals including quail. Several treatments can be used to improve the quality of reproduction of the quail. The research was conducted to know the effect of the use of omega-3, omega-6 fatty acid and synthetic cholesterol on sperm quality, testosterone level, the testes and the uropygium size of male quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). This research used 175 male quails at 6-w old. These divided into seven feed treatment groups. These are; R-0 (control), R-1 (0.163 mg omega-3/100g body weight (BW), R-2 (0.362 mg omega-3/100g BW), R-3 (0.163 mg omega-6/100g BW), R-4 (0.326 mg omega-6/100g BW), R-5 (20 mg cholesterol/100g BW) and R-6 (40 mg cholesterol/100g BW). The treatments were given orally for three different periods, within ten days. The data on testes size, uropygium sizes, and the testosterone level were analyzed statistically. The sperm quality data (sperm motility, sperm morphology, sperm viability, and sperm concentration) were analyzed with the Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The usage of omega-3, omega-6 fatty acid with a double dose (0.326 mg) showed the best response, which shows a significant increase of the testes weight (2.64 g), testes circumference (94.70 cm), testes volume (2.00 ml) and uropygium weight (2.75 g). Also, there was a significant increase in the level of testosterone (4.92 ng/ml). The use of double dose of (0.326 mg) omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid or 0.163 mg omega-3 and omega-6 gave a good quality of sperm, including improvements in sperm motility (78.30% and 78.30%), sperm viability (73.19% and 86.06%) and sperm concentration (250.00 × 109/ml and 255.30 × 109/ml).

Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Current Thinking.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), an increasingly prevalent paediatric disorder, is diagnosed and managed not only by both pediatric gastroenterologists/hepatologists but also frequently by the general pediatrician. This article updates recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approach, which may be applied to everyday practice. Diagnosis of NAFLD takes into account the risk factor profile and is a diagnosis of exclusion. Techniques such as transient elastography and specific biomarkers aimed at improving diagnosis and monitoring of NAFLD need further validation in the pediatric population. Defining the risk to develop cirrhosis seems to be of primary importance already in childhood and a combination of genetic, clinical, and environmental factors can help in monitoring and making decisions on therapy. Weight reduction therapy should be the aim of treatment approach, but the compliance is poor and pharmacological treatment would be helpful; docosahexaenoic acid, some probiotics, and vitamin E are to be considered, but evidence is not sufficient to recommend widespread use.

“On the (Ab)use of Omega ?”

Abstract Several recent finance articles use the Omega measure (Keating and Shadwick, 2002), defined as a ratio of potential gains out of possible losses, for gauging the performance of funds or active strategies, in substitution of the traditional Sharpe ratio, with the arguments that return distributions are not Gaussian and volatility is not always the relevant risk metric. Other authors also use Omega for optimizing (non-linear) portfolios with important downside risk. However, we question in this article the relevance of such approaches. First, we show through a basic illustration that the Omega ratio is inconsistent with the Second-order Stochastic Dominance criterion. Furthermore, we observe that the trade-off between return and risk corresponding to the Omega measure, may be essentially influenced by the mean return. Next, we illustrate in static and dynamic frameworks that Omega-based optimal portfolios can be closely associated with classical optimization paradigms depending on the chosen threshold used in Omega. Finally, we present robustness checks on long-only asset and hedge fund databases, that confirm our results.

Effectiveness of n-3 fatty acids in the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia in HIV/AIDS patients: a meta-analysis.

Hypertriglyceridemia is common in antiretroviral therapy-treated patients and Omega 3 fatty acids are being used as a intervention in reducing serum triglycerides (TG) in these patients. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of Omega 3 in the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia in HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy. This study is a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Electronic databases - PubMed, Cochrane and Lilacs were researched. Fifty one articles were encountered. Nine were added to the meta-analysis. The reduction of triglycerides level was -77.55 mg (IC of -121.85 to -33.25) in Omega 3 groups. The analysis considering trials with more than 1000 mg of EPA/DHA included seven studies and the heterogeneity dropped to 0%.The reduction of combined averages was -101.56mg (IC of -145.76 to -57.37). The analysis considering trials with patients that had more than 200 mg/dL of initial triglycerides included also seven trials and the heterogeneity dropped to 0%. The reduction of combined averages was -114.15 mg (IC of -162.34 to -65.97). EPA/DHA supplementation reduces serum triglycerides levels in patients with HIV/AIDS-associated hypertriglyceridemia in stable use of antiretroviral therapy.

Omega-3 versus isoflavones in the control of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women

Determine the efficacy and tolerability of omega-3 fatty acids versus soybean isoflavones in reducing the vasomotor symptoms (VMSs) frequency in postmenopausal women. A randomized, prospective, two-arm study was performed in healthy postmenopausal women aged 45–65. The two arms were: two capsules/day of omega-3 (425 mg of omega-3/capsule) administered orally (n = 38) and two tablets/day of soybean isoflavones (54.4 mg of isoflavones/tablet) (n = 30), over 16 weeks. The mean baseline frequency of moderate and severe VMSs per week in the omega-3 group was 24.56 and 23.90, respectively, and 19.65 and 19.51 in the isoflavone group. After 4 months, the reduction in moderate and severe hot flashes with omega-3 was significant (p < .001), whereas in the case of isoflavones, there was a significant difference in severe (p = .02) hot flashes after 4 months, but not in moderate hot flashes (p = .077). Omega-3 did not demonstrate significant efficacy differences versus isoflavones over time. The use of omega-3 has a beneficial effect on hot flash reduction after 4 months of treatment. This is comparable to the benefits found with soybean isoflavones after 3–4 weeks and after 4 months in severe hot flash women, but higher than those found with soybean isoflavones in moderate symptom women.

Efficacy of nutritional supplementation with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in dry eye syndrome: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials.

To critically appraise scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of nutritional supplementation with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for the treatment of dry eye syndrome (DES). A systematic review of randomized clinical trials was performed. Two independent reviewers selected and analysed the scientific papers that met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Objective and subjective efficacy outcomes were assessed. The trials involved a total of 2591 patients in fifteen independent studies. All studies were published between 2005 and 2015. The supplements used were mostly omega-3 and omega-6 in different proportions. Subjective improvement was measured using mainly Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) test and Dry Eye Severity Score (DESS) test: significant differences in favour of the experimental group were found in seven of the studies. The objective amelioration was assessed by lacrimal function parameters: Tear break-up time (TBUT) significantly increased in nine studies and Schirmer's test in four studies. We observed a discrete improvement in the parameters of tear function. Scientific evidence is not strong enough to systematically recommend the use of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as a standalone treatment of DES independently from its aetiology. However, they could be considered as an effective alternative to topical treatment in patients with DES secondary to certain pathologies.

Pretreatment with and ongoing use of omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters reduce the slow-flow phenomenon and prevent in-stent restenosis in patients undergoing carotid artery stenting

ObjectiveCarotid artery stenting (CAS) is a less invasive alternative to carotid endarterectomy, but it is essential to prevent thromboembolic complications during CAS and to suppress in-stent restenosis (ISR) after CAS because of the relatively high risk of periprocedural and follow-up stroke events. Clinical trials have demonstrated the strong relationship of carotid plaque vulnerability with the subsequent risk of ipsilateral ischemic stroke and thromboembolic complications during CAS. Recent studies demonstrated that both low eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and low docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels were significantly associated with lipid-rich coronary and carotid plaques, but little is known about the effect of administration of omega-3 fatty acids (O-3FAs) containing EPA and DHA before and after CAS for stabilizing carotid plaque, preventing thromboembolic complications, and suppressing ISR. In this study, the efficacy of pretreatment with and ongoing daily use of O-3FA in addition to statin treatment was evaluated in patients undergoing CAS. MethodsThis study was a nonrandomized prospective trial with retrospective analysis of historical control data. From 2012 to 2015, there were 100 consecutive patients with hyperlipidemia undergoing CAS for carotid artery stenosis who were divided into two groups. Between 2012 and 2013 (control period), 47 patients were treated with standard statin therapy. Between 2014 and 2015 (O-3FA period), patients were treated with statin therapy and add-on oral O-3FA ethyl esters containing 750 mg/d DHA and 1860 mg/d EPA from 4 weeks before CAS, followed by ongoing daily use for at least 12 months. In all patients, the plaque morphology by virtual histology intravascular ultrasound, the incidence of new ipsilateral ischemic lesions on the day after CAS, the slow-flow phenomenon during CAS, and ISR within 12 months after CAS were compared between the periods. ResultsThe slow-flow phenomenon during CAS with filter-type embolic protection devices decreased in the O-3FA period (1 of 53 patients [2%]) compared with the control period (7 of 47 patients [15%]; P = .02). Furthermore, ISR for 12 months after CAS was significantly decreased in the O-3FA period (1 of 53 patients [2%]) compared with the control period (10 of 47 patients [21%]; P = .01). On virtual histology intravascular ultrasound analysis, the fibrofatty area was significantly smaller and the fibrous area was significantly greater in the O-3FA period. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, a low EPA/arachidonic acid ratio and a symptomatic lesion were the factors related to vulnerable plaque (P = .01 [odds ratio, 5.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.65-16.63] and P = .01 [odds ratio, 11.72; 95% confidence interval, 2.93-46.86], respectively). ConclusionsPretreatment with O-3FA reduces the slow-flow phenomenon generated by plaque vulnerability during CAS, and on-going daily use of O-3FA suppresses ISR after CAS.

Prevalence of Glucosamine and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Use and Characteristics of Users among Mid-Age Women: Analysis of a Nationally Representative Sample of 10,638 Women.

There has been a dramatic increase in the use of dietary supplements over the last few decades and both omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine are two of the best-selling dietary supplements in many countries. An understanding of omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine consumption is of significance to health care providers and for future health promotion activities. This research involved analysis of data collected from a nationally-representative sample of Australian women as part of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Participants' use of omega-3 fatty acids (FA), glucosamine, their demographics, health status and health care utilisation were measured. Analysis included logistic regression modelling. Of the 10,638 women in the study, 26.8% reported use of omega-3 FA and 15.9% glucosamine. Women with osteoarthritis (OR=2.529; 95% CI: 2.190, 2.921), other arthritis (OR= 1.618; 95% CI: 1.375, 1.905), and joint pain (OR= 2.699; 95% CI: 2.305, 3.160) were more likely to use glucosamine (all p<0.001). In contrast, those with diabetes (OR= 0.471; 95% CI: 0.343, 0.646) or depression (OR= 0.764; 95% CI: 0.657, 0.887) were less likely to use glucosamine (both p<0.001). Women with osteoarthritis (OR=1.481; 95% CI: 1.297, 1.691) and joint pain (OR= 1.456; 95% CI: 1.306, 1.622) were more likely to use omega-3 FA (all p<0.001). Substantial prevalence rates for use of glucosamine and omega-3 FA amongst mid-aged women highlights the need for health practitioners and policymakers to be mindful of the possible significant role of such supplement use as part of patient health-seeking behaviours.

Effects of fish oil containing eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on dystrophic mdx mice hearts at later stages of dystrophy

ObjectiveIn the present study, we investigated whether omega-3 would be effective against dystrophic cardiomyopathy at later stages (13 and 17 mo) of the disease. MethodsMdx mice (8 mo old) received omega-3 oil (commercially available fish oil; FDC vitamins; omega-3) for 5 mo. Untreated-mdx mice received mineral oil. Heart and diaphragm muscle were evaluated by morphometric (fibrosis), molecular (western blot, inflammatory markers), biochemical (creatine kinase), and functional (electrocardiogram) analyses. ResultsMdx mice presented elevated plasma levels of cardiac creatine kinase (41.2 U/L in normal × 119.6 U/L in untreated-mdx mice), which were significantly decreased by omega-3 treatment. Heart fibrosis was significantly ameliorated by omega-3 treatment at 17 mo of age (untreated-mdx: 20.8% of fibrosis; omega-3-treated: 15.7% of fibrosis in right ventricle). Omega-3 improved some electrocardiogram parameters. Markers of inflammation (tumor necrosis factor alpha, matrix metalloprotease-9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease 1) in mdx heart were significantly decreased by omega-3 treatment. Omega-3 increased β-dystroglycan levels in mdx heart and did not affect the levels of the profibrotic transforming growth factor beta. Omega-3 ameliorated the dystrophic diaphragm in almost all of the parameters evaluated (fibrosis, transforming growth factor beta, metalloprotease-9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease 1). ConclusionsThe present study suggests that omega-3 may be useful in ameliorating dystrophic cardiomyopathy and diaphragm dystrophy in mdx mice at later stages of the disease, further supporting the use of omega-3 in DMD clinical trials.

Effect of omega-3 supplementation on lipid profile and inflammatory markers in children on chronic hemodialysis

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of omega-3 supplementation on the lipid profile and inflammatory markers in children on chronic hemodialysis. Background: Children with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis are at a high risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Dyslipidemia is an important risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients, Patients who are on hemodialysis have elevated serum levels of inflammatory markers. There is a growing interest in the application of omega-3 fatty acids in the prevention of cardiovascular disorders in dialysis patients. Omega-3 fatty acids have been postulated to reduce proinflammatory response, confer antithrombotic properties, improve lipid levels (particularly triglycerides), and improve endothelial function. Materials and methods: This clinical trial was conducted in 23 children with end-stage renal disease undergoing dialysis in the pediatric hemodialysis unit of Menoufia University Hospitals. The patients received 1 g omega 3 per day for 3 months. Blood samples were obtained from the patients studied before and at the end of the study for hemoglobin, ferritin, triglyceride, total cholesterol, LDL-c and HDL-c, and high specific-C-reactive protein measurement, and the differences were analyzed. Results: Of 23 patients, 12 were males and 11 were females, mean age 14.52 (8–18) years. There were statistically highly significant differences between the level of triglycerides before (148.86 ± 44.41 mg/dl), and after supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid (135.17 ± 45.99 mg/dl) (P 0.05). Conclusion: The use of omega 3 led to a significant decrease in serum levels of triglycerides in children on hemodialysis, and its use may be recommended in such patients.

Long-Term Therapy With Omega-3 Ameliorates Myonecrosis and Benefits Skeletal Muscle Regeneration in Mdx Mice.

In Duchenne muscle dystrophy (DMD) and in the mdx mouse model of DMD, a lack of dystrophin leads to myonecrosis and cardiorespiratory failure. Several lines of evidence suggest a detrimental role of the inflammatory process in the dystrophic process. Previously, we demonstrated that short-term therapy with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), at early stages of disease, ameliorated dystrophy progression in the mdx mouse. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of a long-term therapy with omega-3 later in dystrophy progression. Three-month-old mdx mice received omega-3 (300 mg/kg) or vehicle by gavage for 5 months. The quadriceps and diaphragm muscles were removed and processed for histopathology and Western blot. Long-term therapy with omega-3 increased the regulatory protein MyoD and muscle regeneration and reduced markers of inflammation (TNF-α and NF-kB) in both muscles studied. The present study supports the long-term use of omega-3 at later stages of dystrophy as a promising option to be investigated in DMD clinical trials.

Abstract P5-14-01: Docosahexanoic acid's modulation of survival and invasion is associated with altered CCL20/CCR6 chemokine levels and signaling in hyperplastic, DCIS and metastatic breast cancer cell lines

Abstract Introduction: High dietary intake of docosahexanoic acid is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer and reduced metastasis. Epidemiological and preclinical studies suggest that the regulation of monocyte recruitment may play an important role in lowering breast cancer risk and decreasing breast cancer metastasis. In addition to promoting the recruitment of pro-inflammatory leukocytes, the CCL20/CCR6 chemokine axis has been implicated in promoting breast cancer cell migration and invasion. We hypothesize that one mechanism by which DHA suppresses breast cancer progression and metastasis is through the suppression of CCL20/CCR6 signaling. Methods: The 21PT, 21NT and 21MT-1 cell lines have been previously described as reflecting the characteristics of hyperplastic, in situ and metastatic breast cells, respectively. We measured the impact of physiological DHA concentrations on cell survival and cell proliferation using colony formation and MTT assays respectively. Invasion of 21PT, 21NT and 21MT-1 cells were evaluated using invasion chambers. Changes in CCL20 and CCR6 expression were measured using qPCR. The activity and expression levels of JNK, ERK1/2 and c-Jun, downstream modulators of the CCL20/CCR6 axis, were evaluated using Western blot analyses. Results: Following a 24 hr exposure to 20 uM DHA and 5-7 days of recovery, colony counts of all three cell lines were significantly suppressed, with 21NT cells experiencing the largest percent reduction. Invasion capacity of 21PT, 21NT and 21MT-1 accurately mirrored the stages of breast cancer they represent. Treatment with DHA reduced the invasion capacity of 21MT-1 to the levels of its hyperplastic counterpart. CCL20 mRNA levels were reduced when cells were exposed to DHA for 48 hrs. Western blot analyses suggest that activation of ERK1/2 and JNK signaling may be critical in orchestrating DHA-associated reduction of invasion. Conclusions: With the support from epidemiological and preclinical studies, the use of omega-3 based preventive regimen may prove useful for reducing breast cancer risk and breast cancer metastasis. In vitro studies using premalignant breast cancer can provide invaluable insights to the molecular mechanisms accountable for preventive properties of omega-3 fatty acids. DHA-associated regulation of CCL20/CCR6 signal transduction may be an important preventive mechanism and future studies will warrant deepened understanding of how nutraceutical compounds can prevent breast cancer. Citation Format: Ching Hui Chen, Laura Garcia, Carol Fabian, Stephen Hursting, Linda deGraffenried. Docosahexanoic acid's modulation of survival and invasion is associated with altered CCL20/CCR6 chemokine levels and signaling in hyperplastic, DCIS and metastatic breast cancer cell lines [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Seventh Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2014 Dec 9-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-14-01.

The Effect of n-3 Fatty Acids on Glucose Homeostasis and Insulin Sensitivity

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) as well as cardiovascular disease (CVD) represent major complications of obesity and associated metabolic disorders (metabolic syndrome). This review focuses on the effects of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3) on insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis, which are improved by omega-3 in many animal models of metabolic syndrome, but remain frequently unaffected in humans. Here we focus on: (i) mechanistic aspects of omega-3 action, reflecting also our experiments in dietary obese mice; and (ii) recent studies analysing omega-3's effects in various categories of human subjects. Most animal experiments document beneficial effects of omega-3 on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism even under conditions of established obesity and insulin resistance. Besides positive results obtained in both cross-sectional and prospective cohort studies on healthy human populations, also some intervention studies in prediabetic subjects document amelioration of impaired glucose homeostasis by omega-3. However, the use of omega-3 to reduce a risk of new-onset diabetes in prediabetic subjects still remains to be further characterized. The results of a majority of clinical trials performed in T2D patients suggest that omega-3 have none or marginal effects on metabolic control, while effectively reducing hypertriglyceridemia in these patients. Despite most of the recent randomized clinical trials do not support the role of omega-3 in secondary prevention of CVD, this issue remains still controversial. Combined interventions using omega-3 and antidiabetic or hypolipidemic drugs should be further explored and considered for treatment of patients with T2D and other diseases.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease: New Developments and Applications

The omega-3 fatty acids (FA) found in fish oils, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (EPA and DHA, respectively), have been extensively studied therapeutically in a wide variety of disease conditions, but in none more than cardiovascular disease (CVD). Our review summarizes mechanisms of action, recent meta-analyses of CVD outcome trials, sources (fish and supplements), and recommendations for use of omega-3 FA in clinical practice. With the ability to now measure the omega-3 FA biostatus through blood tests, patients can achieve cardioprotective levels by either taking fish oil supplements or simply eating more oily fish. Two omega-3 FA formulations (both in the ethyl ester form) have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of patients with very high triglyceride levels (> 500 mg/dL); one contains both EPA and DELA, whereas the other contains only EPA. The agents have been extensively tested in 2 patient populations, those with very high triglycerides and those with triglycerides between 200 and 500 mg/dL while on background statin therapy. In general, treatment with EPA+DHA appears to lower patient triglycerides more effectively, but in those patients with very high triglyceride levels, use of EPA+DHA also raised low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, whereas EPA alone did not. Both formulations, at doses that do not lower triglycerides, have been shown to reduce CVD events in some, but not all, studies. Given the favorable risk-to-benefit ratio for these essentially nutritional agents, use is expected to continue to expand.

PRS14 - Potential of Omega-3 Fatty Acid in Parenteral Nutrition in Germany: A Budget Impact Analysis

The costs to the German hospitals of intensive care (ICU) patients and of surgical patients not admitted to the ICU were estimated in a previous cost-effectiveness analysis of omega-3 FA-supplemented compared to standard PN regimens. The supplementation with Omega-3 FA results in shorter LOS and reduced infection rate, with cost savings for 3,277 € per ICU patient and 1,515 € per not-ICU patients. We aimed to estimate the economic consequences of increasing the rate of omega-3 fatty acids (FA) supplemented parenteral nutrition (PN) regimens in German hospitals IMS-data recorded about 3 million lipid-containing PN days for Germany; the total number of patients in ICU or in ward receiving PN with lipids was estimated on average PN duration from the cost-effectiveness analysis The costs related to the current use of omega-3 FA (about 29% of total lipid PN days) were compared with those expected with increasing percentages of omega-3 FA-containing PN rates. The yearly cost of the patient population (104,022 ICU patients and 427,986 not-ICU patients) treated with current PN regimens mix amounts to about 6 billion Euro. The increase of omega-3 FA-containing PN proportion up to 50% results in a saving of about 210 million Euro (2.7%); the exclusive use of omega-3 FA-containing PN regimes results in savings of 704 million Euro (11.6%). Encouraging omega-3 FA supplemented PN regimens is expected to save costs, because the use is associated with a reduction in hospital LOS (~ 850,000 days saved in the best scenario) and the number of nosocomial infections (~ 40,000 infections avoided in the best scenario). The potential of PN including omega-3 FAs in contributing to an improved quality of care/patient recovery and significant cost savings is not fully exploited in German hospitals.

Dietary omega-3 fatty acids attenuate myocardial arrhythmogenic factors and propensity of the heart to lethal arrhythmias in a rodent model of human essential hypertension

Hypertension-induced myocardial remodeling is known to be associated with increased risk for malignant arrhythmias and alterations in electrical coupling protein, connexin-43 (Cx43), may be involved. We investigated whether omega-3 fatty acids intake affects abnormalities of Cx43 as well as protein kinase C (PKC) signaling and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) profile at the early and late stage of hypertension in the context of the heart's susceptibility to ventricular fibrillation and ability to restore sinus rhythm. Untreated young and old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and age-matched normotensive rats were compared with animals supplemented by omega-3 (eicosapentaneoic acid + docosahexaneoic acid, 200 mg/kg body weight/day) for 2 months. Left ventricular tissues were taken for examination of subcellular integrity of gap junctions, Cx43 mRNA and protein expression, PKCε and PKCδ as well as MyHC determination. Electrically inducible ventricular fibrillation and sinus rhythm restoration (SRR) were examined on Langedorff-perfused heart preparation. Omega-3 intake significantly reduced cardiovascular risk factors, suppressed inducible ventricular fibrillation, and facilitated SRR in hypertensive rats. Supplementation attenuated lateralization and internalization of Cx43, suppressed elevated Cx43 mRNA, enhanced total Cx43 protein expression and/or expression of its functional phosphorylated forms as well as the expression of cardioprotective PKC-ε and suppressed pro-apoptotic PKC-δ isoform. Moreover, the omega-3 diet normalized MyHC profiles in SHR at early stage of disease and old nonhypertensive rats, but failed to do so in old SHR at late stage of disease. Findings suggest that amelioration of myocardial Cx43-related abnormalities, positive modulation of PKC pathways, and normalization of MyHC can significantly contribute to the antiarrhythmic effects of omega-3 in rat model mimicking human essential hypertension. Our results support the prophylactic use of omega-3 to minimize cardiovascular risk and sudden arrhythmic death.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Prevention of Breast Cancer: an Update and the State of the Science

The quantity and makeup of dietary fat intake are known to impact human health. Use of Omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplements has gained increasing attention for a variety of purported health benefits, including cancer prevention. Preclinical evidence has been encouraging and recent studies have expanded our understanding of the mechanisms by which ω-3 PUFAs may protect against breast cancer. However, epidemiologic studies have yielded mixed results. Recent population studies have attempted to delineate factors that may influence the effects of ω-3 PUFAs such as total fat intake and the ratio of ω-3 to ω-6 PUFA intake. Several clinical trials, including some currently ongoing, are investigating novel strategies that favorably alter endogenous fatty acid profiles in an effort to develop clinically feasible prevention methods. Identification of well-defined subpopulations that are most likely to benefit from a targeted prevention approach will likely be crucial in this effort.

Change of heart: Mixed evidence on omega-3 FAs

In 2010, Americans spent more than $1 billion on nonprescription fish oil products. These dietary supplements remain the most commonly used natural products. Fish oil can be used as a source of long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (FAs), but data for their cardiovascular benefits are conflicting. Omega-3 FAs may have antiplatelet activity and may lower triglyceride concentrations and decrease the risk of arrhythmias. In the past 12 months, clinical trials, observational studies, and a meta-analysis have evaluated the potential value of omega-3 FAs on cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality, with varying results. In July 2012, results from the Outcome Reduction With an Initial Glargine Intervention (ORIGIN) study were published.1.ORIGIN trial investigatorsn-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with dysglycemia.N Engl J Med. 2012; 367: 309-318Crossref PubMed Scopus (648) Google Scholar The study evaluated the potential benefits of long-term use of omega-3 FA 1 g/d in patients with type 2 diabetes or at high risk of developing diabetes. Researchers followed more than 12,000 patients for 6 years. Between 50% and 70% of participants were taking statins, antiplatelet agents, beta blockers, and ACE inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers. The study's primary outcome, death from cardiovascular causes, was not reduced by omega-3 FA, despite a 14.5 mg/dL decrease in triglyceride concentrations. The negative results may have been due to patients already being on optimal therapy, an inadequate dosage of omega-3 FA, or patients not at high enough cardiovascular risk.■Patients seeking omega-3 fatty acid supplementation are best served by adding fish to their diet.■For effective primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, patients should focus on reducing risk factors. ■Patients seeking omega-3 fatty acid supplementation are best served by adding fish to their diet.■For effective primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, patients should focus on reducing risk factors. In September 2012, a group of researchers conducted a meta-analysis of omega-3 FA studies including 20 randomized clinical trials involving almost 70,000 people.2.Rizos E.C. Ntzani E.E. Bika E. et al.Association between omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and risk of major cardiovascular disease events: a systematic review and meta-analysis.JAMA. 2012; 308: 1024-1033Crossref PubMed Scopus (810) Google Scholar The studies included primary or second prevention trials of at least 1 year in duration and assessed the effects of omega-3 FA through either diet or supplements on all-cause mortality, sudden death, myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke. Two-thirds of studies were secondary prevention, and the mean dosage of omega-3 FA was 1.51 g/d. Overall, the meta-analysis identified no benefits from omega-3 FA. In April 2013, researchers published data from the Cardiovascular Health Study.3.Mozaffarian D. Lemaitre R.N. King I.B. et al.Plasma phospholipid long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and total and cause-specific mortality in older adults: a cohort study.Ann Intern Med. 2013; 158: 515-525Crossref PubMed Scopus (214) Google Scholar Unlike most other studies, in which participants eat a diet supplemented with omega-3 FA or use dietary supplements, this study's investigators used measurements of plasma concentrations of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and docosapentaenoic acid from almost 2,700 adults 74 years and older without documented cardiovascular disease. Their analysis also incorporated assessments of cardiovascular risk factors first measured in 1992 and data on outcomes collected until 2008. The researchers found that individuals with the highest concentrations of omega-3 FA were associated with a 27% reduction in risk of all-cause death. The decrease was due primarily to a reduced risk of cardiovascular death—specifically, death due to arrhythmias. DHA concentrations had the strongest inverse association with arrhythmic deaths, and EPA levels were inversely correlated with risk of nonfatal MI. The ingestion of fish oil and omega-3 FA supplements has increased dramatically in the past 24 years since the first reports of their benefits. The original studies demonstrating large benefits predated the current widespread use of statins, however. Newer studies have yielded contradictory data due to different designs and populations (primary vs. secondary prevention), concomitant use of drugs, self-reports of dietary omega-3 FA ingestion, and variable dosages and quality of some fish oil products. Encourage patients interested in omega-3 FA supplementation to substitute fish such as salmon or sea trout, in appropriately sized portions, for red meat once or twice a week. For secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, omega-3 FA supplements likely have little additional benefit when combined with optimal therapies, including statins and ACE inhibitors. For primary prevention, especially in older patients, omega-3 FA supplementation may offer some benefits, although evidence remains conflicting. As always, patients interested in effective primary and secondary prevention should focus on reducing cardiovascular risk factors, especially smoking cessation.

Fish consumption and use of omega 3 supplements in a sample of older Australians

AbstractAimDespite the established health benefits of fish, particularly long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids, data on fish intake and the use of fish oil supplements in adult Australian is not well documented. In a sample of Australian adults aged ≥51 years, the aims were to determine: (i) the current intake of finfish/seafood and long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids; (ii) the percentage meeting current Heart Foundation recommendations for long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acid intakes; and (iii) the percentage consuming omega 3 supplements.MethodsThis was a cross‐sectional survey. Eight hundred and fifty‐four Australians aged ≥51 years completed the survey online or by computer‐assisted telephone interview. The survey included the quantitative fish frequency questionnaire and open‐ and closed‐ended survey questions on demographics and supplement usage.ResultsThe mean frequency of finfish/seafood consumption was 1.7 times per week (median intake 173 g). Thirteen per cent (n = 112) consumed finfish/seafood never/&lt;1 per month and were considered ‘low consumers’; 34% ate any type of finfish/seafood ≥2 times per week. Excluding the low consumers, the mean (±standard deviation) daily intake of long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids was 508 ± 855 mg and 28% consumed the recommended intake of 500 mg/day from finfish/seafood alone. Forty‐three per cent consumed omega 3 supplements.ConclusionsCurrent fish consumption in older Australians is low and many do not meet the current recommendations. A further understanding of why many older adults consume low amounts of finfish/seafood is necessary. Strategies to enhance intake to meet dietary recommendations in this older age group are required.

Omega-3 fatty acid for the treatment and remission of Crohn’s disease

This integrative literature review focused on the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD). A systematic review of studies investigating the use of omega-3 in individuals with CD was performed. OVID MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database, and CINAHL were searched for pertinent research. Experiments were limited to double-blind placebo controlled trials. Five studies observing CD relapse rates and three studies examining biochemical changes were evaluated. The studies reviewed show contradicting information regarding the efficacy of omega-3 for CD. While some studies have shown supplementation with omega-3 results in sustained remission from disease, other studies concluded no correlation between omega-3 supplementation and improved remission rates. Studies investigating biochemical variables suggest favorable changes in immunological milieu, including modifications of lipid profiles and cytokine production. The studies reviewed are adversely limited by low number of participants, short duration of study and other significant deficits. Limited data remain available and current literature indicated mixed conclusions regarding the efficacy of omega-3 for treatment of CD. Further large-scale studies of longer duration are necessary.