Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Structural and Functional Effects on the Vascular Wall

Biomed Res Int. 2015:2015:791978. doi: 10.1155/2015/791978. Epub 2015 Aug 2.

Abstract

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk. Increasing evidence demonstrating a beneficial effect of n-3 PUFA on arterial wall properties is progressively emerging. We reviewed the recent available evidence for the cardiovascular effects of n-3 PUFA focusing on structural and functional properties of the vascular wall. In experimental studies and clinical trials n-3 PUFA have shown the ability to improve arterial hemodynamics by reducing arterial stiffness, thus explaining some of its cardioprotective properties. Recent studies suggest beneficial effects of n-3 PUFA on endothelial activation, which are likely to improve vascular function. Several molecular, cellular, and physiological pathways influenced by n-3 PUFA can affect arterial wall properties and therefore interfere with the atherosclerotic process. Although the relative weight of different physiological and molecular mechanisms and the dose-response on arterial wall properties have yet to be determined, n-3 PUFA have the potential to beneficially impact arterial wall remodeling and cardiovascular outcomes by targeting arterial wall stiffening and endothelial dysfunction.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aorta / metabolism*
  • Aorta / pathology
  • Arteries / metabolism*
  • Arteries / pathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / metabolism*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / pathology
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / metabolism*
  • Hemodynamics
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Vascular Stiffness

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3