-
1.
DHA and ARA addition to infant formula: Current status and future research directions.
Lien, EL, Richard, C, Hoffman, DR
Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and essential fatty acids. 2018;:26-40
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) are present in breast milk and play important roles in early infant development. A supply of these fatty acids in infant formula (typically following breast milk as a model with ARA > DHA) is thought to be important since endogenous synthesis is insufficient to maintain tissue levels equivalent to breast-fed infants. Intervention studies assessing the impact of DHA- and ARA-supplemented formulas have resulted in numerous positive developmental outcomes (closer to breast-fed infants) including measures of specific cognition functions, visual acuity, and immune responses. A critical analysis of outcome assessment tools reveals the essentiality of selecting appropriate, focused techniques in order to provide accurate evaluation of DHA- and ARA-supplemented formulas. Future research directions should encompass in-depth assessment of specific cognitive outcomes, immune function, and disease incidence, as well as sources of experimental variability such as the status of fatty acid desaturase polymorphisms.
-
2.
Effect of dietary supplementation with a highly pure and concentrated docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplement on human sperm function.
González-Ravina, C, Aguirre-Lipperheide, M, Pinto, F, Martín-Lozano, D, Fernández-Sánchez, M, Blasco, V, Santamaría-López, E, Candenas, L
Reproductive biology. 2018;(3):282-288
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible beneficial effects of diet supplementation with a highly concentrated and purified docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) formula on human sperm function. We performed a prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled intervention study. One-hundred eighty human semen samples from sixty infertile patients recruited in a private assisted reproduction center were included. All samples were examined according to World Health Organization guidelines. We analyzed macroscopic and microscopic sperm parameters, oxidative stress, apoptosis, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA fragmentation before and after supplementation with different DHA daily doses (0.5, 1 and 2 g) or placebo for 1 and 3 months. No differences were found in traditional sperm parameters except for progressive sperm motility, with a significant increase after DHA ingestion after the first month with 1 or 2 g doses and after 3 months with 0.5 g of DHA. This effect was more evident in asthenozoospermic patients. No differences were found in any molecular semen parameter except oxidative stress, in which a slight benefit was observed after DHA treatment. In conclusion, this study support previous indications that highlight the importance of DHA supplementation as a means of improving sperm quality in asthenozoospermic men.
-
3.
Valorification of crude glycerol for pure fractions of docosahexaenoic acid and β-carotene production by using Schizochytrium limacinum and Blakeslea trispora.
Bindea, M, Rusu, B, Rusu, A, Trif, M, Leopold, LF, Dulf, F, Vodnar, DC
Microbial cell factories. 2018;(1):97
Abstract
The goal of this research is the investigation of a way to maximize the production of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and β-carotene by optimizing the culture conditions of their sources, microalgae Schizochytrium limacinum and fungus Blakeslea trispora respectively, in a fermentation medium. The influencing factors in the fermentation process for producing DHA and β-carotene have proven to be: the concentration of carbon source (different glycerol crude and pure concentrations) for both of them, and in particular temperature for DHA and pH for β-carotene. Testing the effect of these parameters was determined: biomass, DHA and β-carotene concentration. The highest production by S. limacinum was obtained at 25 °C, while using a quantity of 90 g/L of glycerol (crude or pure) as a carbon source. Temperature was the main factor that influenced the biosynthesis of DHA. The quantification of DHA was made by GC-MS chromatography, followed by a purification process, with the end result of DHA in pure phase. The maximum quantities for β-carotene production were obtained with pH 7 and 60 g/L of crude glycerol. The results highlight the possibility of using crude glycerol as a low-cost substrates for growth of microalgae S. limacinum and of fungus B. trispora in order to obtain the crucial molecules: docosahexaenoic acid and β-carotene.
-
4.
Butyrate and docosahexaenoic acid interact in alterations of specific lipid classes in differentiating colon cancer cells.
Tylichová, Z, Slavík, J, Ciganek, M, Ovesná, P, Krčmář, P, Straková, N, Machala, M, Kozubík, A, Hofmanová, J, Vondráček, J
Journal of cellular biochemistry. 2018;(6):4664-4679
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and sodium butyrate (NaBt) exhibit a number of interactive effects on colon cancer cell growth, differentiation, or apoptosis; however, the molecular mechanisms responsible for these interactions and their impact on cellular lipidome are still not fully clear. Here, we show that both dietary agents together induce dynamic alterations of lipid metabolism, specific cellular lipid classes, and fatty acid composition. In HT-29 cell line, a model of differentiating colon carcinoma cells, NaBt supported incorporation of free DHA into non-polar lipids and their accumulation in cytoplasmic lipid droplets. DHA itself was not incorporated into sphingolipids; however, it significantly altered representation of individual ceramide (Cer) classes, in particular in combination with NaBt (DHA/NaBt). We observed altered expression of enzymes involved in Cer metabolism in cells treated with NaBt or DHA/NaBt, and exogenous Cer 16:0 was found to promote induction of apoptosis in differentiating HT-29 cells. NaBt, together with DHA, increased n-3 fatty acid synthesis and attenuated metabolism of monounsaturated fatty acids. Finally, DHA and/or NaBt altered expression of proteins involved in synthesis of fatty acids, including elongase 5, stearoyl CoA desaturase 1, or fatty acid synthase, with NaBt increasing expression of caveolin-1 and CD36 transporter, which may further promote DHA incorporation and its impact on cellular lipidome. In conclusion, our results indicate that interactions of DHA and NaBt exert complex changes in cellular lipidome, which may contribute to the alterations of colon cancer cell differentiation/apoptotic responses. The present data extend our knowledge about the nature of interactive effects of dietary fatty acids.
-
5.
Defining the Optimal Target Population for Trials of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation Using the Erythrocyte Omega-3 Index: A Step Towards Personalized Prevention of Cognitive Decline?
Coley, N, Raman, R, Donohue, MC, Aisen, PS, Vellas, B, Andrieu, S
The journal of nutrition, health & aging. 2018;(8):982-998
-
-
Free full text
-
Abstract
OBJECTIVES to identify the optimal erythrocyte omega-3 index cut-off for predicting cognitive decline and/or polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) treatment response, in order to better define the target population for future dementia prevention trials. DESIGN AND SETTING Secondary exploratory analysis of the randomized controlled MAPT prevention trial. PARTICIPANTS 724 dementia-free subjects aged 70 or older with subjective memory complaints, limitations in one instrumental activity of daily living, and/or slow gait speed. INTERVENTION 800mg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and 225mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) daily versus placebo. MEASUREMENTS Erythrocyte omega-3 index was measured at baseline. Cognition was measured over 3 years with a composite cognitive score (mean of 4 z-scores). RESULTS Placebo group subjects in the lowest quartile of baseline erythrocyte omega-3 index (i.e. ≤4.83%) underwent significantly more 3-year cognitive decline than the other quartiles (mean composite score difference 0.14, 95%CI [0.00, 0.28], p=0.048). In a ROC curve analysis, the optimal omega-3 index cut-off for predicting notable cognitive decline was 5.3%. There was a consistent but non-significant difference in 3-year cognitive decline of approximately 0.12 points between PUFA-treated and placebo subjects with "low" baseline omega-3 index when the cut-off was set at ≤5.27%. CONCLUSIONS Dementia-free older adults with an omega-3 index below approximately 5% are at increased risk of cognitive decline, and could be a good target population for testing the cognitive effects of PUFA supplementation.
-
6.
Investigation of the effect of dietary docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation on macular function in subjects with autosomal recessive Stargardt macular dystrophy.
MacDonald, IM, Sieving, PA
Ophthalmic genetics. 2018;(4):477-486
Abstract
PURPOSE To test the effect of docosahexanoic acid (DHA) dietary supplementation on macular function in patients with Stargardt disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single center, double-masked, randomized placebo-controlled trial of 11 subjects (2 males, 9 females) with Stargardt disease in a crossover design (NCT00060749). Six participants were randomized to two sequences of three month periods of DHA supplementation (2000 mg/day) followed by three months of placebo. Five participants were randomized to the opposite sequence. All participants were evaluated with a food frequency and NEI-VF25 questionnaires, complete ophthalmic examination, multifocal electroretinography (ERG, primary outcome), 30-Hz flicker ERG, Humphrey 10-2 visual field, D15 color tests and serum lipid analysis. RESULTS During periods of DHA supplementation, serum rose and then fell with transition to periods of placebo. None of the participants experienced greater than 20% change from baseline values of the mfERG during periods of DHA supplementation or placebo, while the average change in peak amplitude and phase angle of the flicker ERG remained similar at all visits. No significant change was observed for any of the secondary outcome measures. Eight adverse events occurred but these were not considered to be due to the treatment. CONCLUSIONS No perceived effect of DHA supplementation on macular function was observed in a small sample of Stargardt patients who were compliant with the protocol as estimated by changes in serum DHA. This study will help design future studies of the effect of DHA supplementation on retinal function in cohorts with retinal dystrophies.
-
7.
Effectiveness on maternal and offspring metabolic control of a home-based dietary counseling intervention and DHA supplementation in obese/overweight pregnant women (MIGHT study): A randomized controlled trial-Study protocol.
Garmendia, ML, Corvalán, C, Casanello, P, Araya, M, Flores, M, Bravo, A, Kusanovic, JP, Olmos, P, Uauy, R
Contemporary clinical trials. 2018;:35-40
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifestyle interventions are the primary prevention strategy for gestational diabetes (GDM) in obese/overweight women; however, these interventions have shown limited effectiveness. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) intake has shown beneficial effects on glucose metabolism, lipid fractions and inflammatory factors in women who already have GDM. Combining PUFAs supplementation with a lifestyle intervention could achieve lower increase of glucose levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Our aim is to assess two prenatal nutritional interventions (home-based dietary counseling and/or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation) delivered to obese/overweight women during pregnancy for them and their offspring to achieve better metabolic control. METHODS/DESIGN Randomized controlled trial, 2 × 2 factorial design. Eligible pregnant women will be randomly allocated to one of the four parallel arms: 1) Home-based dietary counseling +800 mg/day DHA supplementation (n = 250); 2) 800 mg/day DHA (n = 250); 3) Home-based dietary counseling +200 mg/day DHA (n = 250); 4) 200 mg/day DHA (n = 250). Primary outcomes are: GDM; macrosomia; and neonatal insulin resistance. Data analyses will be done on an intention-to-treat basis. DISCUSSION We expect the present study to contribute to the understanding of the potential effectiveness of an omega-3 supplementation on the risk of developing GDM in overweight/obese pregnant women. We will also test if the combination of having better dietary habits alongside with omega 3 supplementation will improve insulin sensitivity and as consequence, a lower elevation of glucose levels could be achieved. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02574767.
-
8.
Effect of n-3 fatty acids supplementation during life style modification in women with overweight.
Sedláček, P, Plavinová, I, Langmajerová, J, Dvořáková, J, Novák, J, Trefil, L, Müller, L, Buňatová, P, Zeman, V, Müllerová, D
Central European journal of public health. 2018;(4):265-271
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The marine n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) exert numerous beneficial effects on health, but their potency to defend against development of peripheral insulin resistance of healthy person with overweight remains poorly characterized. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a combination intervention using EPA + DHA and the lifestyle modification (LSM) in women with overweight. METHOD In a parallel-group, three-arm, randomized trial (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry - R000031131), 34 women were assigned to a 12-week-intervention using corn oil (1.5 g/day; placebo); LSM and corn oil (1.5 g/day; LSM); or LSM and EPA + DHA concentrate (1.5 g/day, containing ~ 0.6 g EPA + DHA; LSM & n-3). At baseline and after intervention, anthropometric measurements including bioelectrical impedance analysis, spiroergometry, 24-hours dietary recall, and various metabolic markers, adiponectin and cytokines were evaluated in serum using standard procedures. Data from 29 women were used for the final evaluation. Wilcoxon two-sided rank-sum test was used to inspect the differences between LSM and LSM & n-3, and placebo groups, with a p-value of ≤ 0.05. All computations were performed with MATLAB Statistics Toolbox. RESULTS In comparison with placebo, LSM and LSM & n-3 decreased body weight, waist circumference, and body fat, and increased VO2max/kg. LSM & n-3 increased adiponectin levels in comparison to LSM. Fasting insulin, IL8, and cholesterol were decreased by LSM, but were unchanged by LSM & n-3. IL6 was not affected in LSM & n-3, while it was increased in LSM. Other inflammatory markers, as well as leptin, LIF, follistatin, BDNF, and fasting triacylglycerol were not significantly affected by any of the interventions. CONCLUSION Besides preventing a modest negative effect of LSM on IL6 and adiponectin level, the combination of LSM and EPA + DHA supplementation could be probably used to improve the functional capacity of adipose tissue in women with overweight.
-
9.
Maternal DHA Status during Pregnancy Has a Positive Impact on Infant Problem Solving: A Norwegian Prospective Observation Study.
Braarud, HC, Markhus, MW, Skotheim, S, Stormark, KM, Frøyland, L, Graff, IE, Kjellevold, M
Nutrients. 2018;(5)
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6, n-3) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid necessary for normal brain growth and cognitive development. Seafood and dietary supplements are the primary dietary sources of DHA. This study addresses the associations between DHA status in pregnant women and healthy, term-born infant problem-solving skills assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. The fatty acid status of maternal red blood cells (RBCs) was assessed in the 28th week of gestation and at three months postpartum. The infants’ fatty acid status (RBC) was assessed at three, six, and twelve months, and problem-solving skills were assessed at six and twelve months. Maternal DHA status in pregnancy was found to be positively associated with infants’ problem-solving skills at 12 months. This association remained significant even after controlling for the level of maternal education, a surrogate for socio-economic status. The infants’ DHA status at three months was associated with the infants’ problem solving at 12 months. The results accentuate the importance for pregnant and lactating women to have a satisfactory DHA status from dietary intake of seafood or other sources rich in DHA.
-
10.
Dry Eye Assessment and Management (DREAM©) Study: Study design and baseline characteristics.
Asbell, PA, Maguire, MG, Peskin, E, Bunya, VY, Kuklinski, EJ, ,
Contemporary clinical trials. 2018;:70-79
-
-
Free full text
-
Abstract
PURPOSE Describe trial design and baseline characteristics of participants in the DRy Eye Assessment and Management (DREAM©) Study. DESIGN Prospective, multi-center, randomized, double-masked "real-world" clinical trial assessing efficacy and safety of oral omega-3 (ω3) supplementation for the treatment of dry eye disease (DED). METHODS RESULTS Mean age of participants was 58.0 ± 13.2 years. Mean OSDI score at baseline was 44.4 ± 14.2. Mean conjunctival staining score (scale 0-6) was 3.0 ± 1.4, corneal staining score (scale 0-15) was 3.9 ± 2.7, tear break-up time was 3.1 ± 1.5 s, and Schirmer test was 9.6 ± 6.5 mm/5 min. CONCLUSIONS DREAM© participants mirror real world patients who seek intervention for their DED-related symptoms despite their current treatments. Results regarding the efficacy of omega-3 supplementation will be helpful to clinicians and patients with moderate to severe DED who are considering omega-3 as a treatment. This trial design may be a model for future RCT's on nutritional supplements and DED treatments seeking to provide useful information for clinical practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT02128763.