The impact of long-chainn-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on human health

Abstract

A considerable literature has been published on the health benefits of fish, oil-rich fish and fish oils and their constituent long-chain (LC)n-3 PUFA. Evidence from epidemiological studies highlights the cardioprotective attributes of diets rich in fish, especially oil-rich fish. Data from intervention trials are consistent in suggesting that LCn-3 PUFA lower the risk of CVD, probably by the multiple mechanisms of lowering serum triacylglycerols, improving the LDL:HDL ratio, anti-arrhythmic effects on heart muscle, improved plaque stability, anti-thrombotic effects and reduced endothelial activation. Research indicates LCn-3 PUFA provision has an impact during development, and there is preliminary evidence that docosahexaenoic acid supplementation during pregnancy could optimise brain and retina development in the infant. LCn-3 PUFA are also postulated to ameliorate behavioural and mental health disturbances such as depression, schizophrenia, dementia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, despite some positive evidence in each of these areas, use of LCn-3 PUFA in these conditions remains at the experimental stage. In the case of immune function, there is little doubt that LCn-3 PUFA have a positive effect. Although intervention trials in rheumatoid arthritis show strong evidence of benefit, evidence for efficacy in other inflammatory conditions, including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis and asthma, is inconsistent or inadequate. More promising evidence in some conditions may come from studies which attempt to modify the fetal environment using LCn-3 PUFA supplementation during pregnancy.

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Optimization of One-Step In Situ Transesterification Method for Accurate Quantification of EPA in Nannochloropsis gaditana

“…In addition to fuels production, microalgae have historically been used to produce long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) [3]. In particular, PUFAs produced by microalgae have demonstrated their potential in the prevention and treatment of several diseases [4,5]. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexenoic acid (DHA) are two omega-3 PUFAs that have been shown to provide numerous cardiovascular benefits [5], making them popular health food ingredients.…”

“…In particular, PUFAs produced by microalgae have demonstrated their potential in the prevention and treatment of several diseases [4,5]. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexenoic acid (DHA) are two omega-3 PUFAs that have been shown to provide numerous cardiovascular benefits [5], making them popular health food ingredients. EPA must be obtained from external food sources such as fish, since it is poorly synthesized in the human body [6].…”

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