DPA n-3, DPA n-6 and DHA improve lipoprotein profiles and aortic function in hamsters fed a high cholesterol diet

► The first report on the cholesterol-lowering activity of isolated docosahexaenoic acid (DPA) n-3 and DPA n-6. ► DPA n-3, DPA n-6 and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) all reduced plasma cholesterol in hamsters fed a high cholesterol diet. ► Reduction in plasma cholesterol was accompanied by down-regulation of SREBP-2 and HMG-CoA reductase. ► DPA n-3 and DHA improved the aortic function mediated by down-regulation of COX-2.