Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids as inflammation-modulating and lipid homeostasis influencing nutraceuticals: A review

The present review summarizes the underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms that can explain cardioprotective effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and their competition with arachidonic acid as a substrate of cyclooxygenase COX-2 and lipoxygenase 5-LOX, and modulation of the signaling pathways of the transcription factors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), sterol-response element binding protein (SREBP) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). Consequences, namely decreased production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines, stimulation of β-oxidation, inhibition of fatty acid synthesis and down-regulation of the genes coding for enzymes of cholesterol synthesis and uptake are reviewed. Factors influencing responses of an organism to EPA/DHA intake are discussed and these include species, sex, dose and time interval of administration. Examples of food enrichment with EPA + DHA are presented under consideration of a low efficiency of conversion of α-linolenic acid to EPA (DHA).

► EPA + DHA decrease vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation and inflammation.
► EPA + DHA modulate signaling pathways of transcription factors NF-κB, PPAR and SREBP.
► Intake of 200–600 mg/day of EPA + DHA decrease plasma triacylglycerols.
► Effects of EPA/DHA on plasma cholesterol are contradictory.
► Transgenic plants are promising alternatives of EPA + DHA-enriched animal-derived foods.