Biological benefits of an oleic acid–rich lipid emulsion for parenteral nutrition

SummaryParenteral nutrition is indicated when enteral nutrition is contraindicated or not tolerated. The first lipid emulsion that was added to parenteral nutrition admixtures was soybean oil based and was developed in efforts to provide essential fatty acids and non-glucose energy. Although soybean oil is an effective means of providing energy, concerns have been raised regarding the high polyunsaturated fatty acid content. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are particularly susceptible to lipid peroxidation, are pro-inflammatory, and have been associated with negative effects on the immune and hepatobiliary systems. In lieu of a high polyunsaturated fatty acid content, the lipid emulsion ClinOleic contains a high concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids, given its composition (80% olive oil and 20% soybean oil). ClinOleic provides energy equivalent to soybean oil–based emulsions, yet studies thus far show that it reduces oxidative stress, supports the immune system, and preserves liver function relative to other lipid emulsions, including those that are soybean oil based. This brief review summarizes the preclinical and clinical data related to ClinOleic.