Docosahexaenoic acid, protectin synthesis: relevance against atherothrombogenesis

Proc Nutr Soc. 2014 May;73(2):186-9. doi: 10.1017/S0029665113003704. Epub 2013 Oct 30.

Abstract

DHA is an abundant nutrient from marine lipids: its specific biological effects have been investigated in human volunteers, taking into consideration the dose effects. We report herein that, at dosages below 1 g/d, DHA proved to be effective in lowering blood platelet function and exhibited an 'antioxidant' effect. However, this was no longer the case following 1.6 g/d, showing then a U-shape response. The antioxidant effect has been observed in platelets as well as LDL, of which the redox status is assumed to be crucial in their relationship with atherosclerosis. Second, the oxygenated products of DHA, especially protectins produced by lipoxygenases, have been considered for their potential to affect blood platelets and leucocytes. It is concluded that DHA is an interesting nutrient to reduce atherothrombogenesis, possibly through complementary mechanisms involving lipoxygenase products of DHA.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antioxidants / metabolism*
  • Atherosclerosis / blood
  • Atherosclerosis / etiology
  • Atherosclerosis / prevention & control*
  • Blood Platelets / drug effects
  • CD59 Antigens / biosynthesis
  • CD59 Antigens / blood*
  • Cholesterol, LDL / blood
  • Diet
  • Dietary Fats / blood
  • Dietary Fats / pharmacology
  • Dietary Fats / therapeutic use*
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / blood
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / pharmacology
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Leukocytes
  • Lipoxygenases / blood*
  • Thrombosis / blood
  • Thrombosis / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • CD59 Antigens
  • Cholesterol, LDL
  • Dietary Fats
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids
  • Lipoxygenases