Long-chain omega 3 fatty acids: molecular bases of potential antioxidant actions

Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2014 Jan;90(1):1-4. doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2013.11.002. Epub 2013 Dec 3.

Abstract

Several lines of investigation are being developed to assess the impact of polyunsaturated fatty acids, namely those of the omega 3 series, intake on oxidative stress. Keeping in mind that there might be a dose-response relation, in vivo and in vitro data strongly suggest that omega 3 fatty acids might act as anti- rather than pro-oxidant in several cells such as vascular cells, hence diminishing inflammation, oxidative stress, and, in turn, the risk of atherosclerosis and degenerative disorders such as cardiovascular disease.

Keywords: Antioxidants; Cardiovascular disease; Free radicals; Polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antioxidants / metabolism*
  • Atherosclerosis / metabolism*
  • Atherosclerosis / pathology
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Inflammation / pathology
  • Oxidative Stress*

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3