The general health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are well known. However, not all omega-3’s are the same, and which fatty acids are best for certain conditions remains less certain. For example, the fatty acids EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) have both been examined for their potentially beneficial effects in inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, IBS and asthma. Recent research has shown, however, that EPA in particular, may have better anti-inflammatory actions in asthma than DHA.
The study, which was recently published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, examined the actions of EPA, DHA and combinations of the two on certain inflammatory markers in lung cells harvested from asthmatic patients. Alveolar macrophage cells were collected from 20 non-smoking, asthmatic individuals. Anti-inflammatory actions of the fatty acid preparations was assessed through the measurement of molecules that are indicative of inflammation including : leukotriene B4 (LT-B4), prostaglandin D2-methoxime (PGD2-MOX), tumor necrosis factor a (TNF-a) and interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß).
The results of the study demonstrated that pure EPA was much more effective at reducing the expression and production of a number of proinflammatory molecules (LT-B4, PGD2-MOX, TNF-a and IL-1ß) than pure DHA. Furthermore, EPA-rich mixtures of the two fatty acids were more effective than DHA-rich mixtures. These results suggest that the greater the EPA content, the greater the potential reduction of inflammation in asthmatic individuals.
The biological explanation for EPA’s superior ability against inflammation is uncertain. It may be related to EPA’s diverse mechanisms of action. For example, EPA can inhibit both COX-2 and LOX pathways – which are two key pathways involved in the inflammatory response.
Mickleborough T. Eicosapentanoic acid is more effective than docosahexaenoic acid in inhibiting proinflammatory mediator production and transcription from LPS-induced human asthmatic alveolar macrophage cells. Clinical Nutrition. 2008. Early online publication.
For more information see Omega EPA
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