We investigated the potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in fighting Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a novel intranasal administration method. By using a specially formulated nanoemulsion that protects DHA from oxidation, we aimed to enhance its delivery to the brain. In our study, we administered this DHA-rich nanoemulsion to J20 mice, a well-known transgenic model for AD.
The results were promising. After treatment, the mice showed notable improvements in their well-being and memory performance, which we measured through their ability to navigate spatial tasks. Additionally, we observed a significant reduction in harmful amyloid deposits, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation within their brain tissues. This positive outcome could potentially stem from DHA's ability to affect specific processes in the brain, such as the inactivation of GSK3β, a kinase associated with AD.
Overall, our findings suggest that intranasal DHA treatment not only has therapeutic effects but may also modify the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Considering that DHA has already demonstrated safety in humans, we believe there is a strong case for conducting clinical trials to explore this approach further for Alzheimer's patients.
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8
Eicosapentaenoic Acid aids Alzheimer's treatment
N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids attenuate amyloid-beta-induced toxicity in AD transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans via promotion of proteasomal activity and activation of PPAR-gamma.
We investigated how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, affects the toxicity linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Using a model of transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans, we observed that treating these worms with EPA led to a decrease in the harmful effects caused by beta-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation, a key contributor to cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s.
Notably, we found that EPA not only reduced the signs of paralysis associated with Aβ but also lowered the production of reactive oxygen species, which are harmful compounds that can damage cells. Additionally, our findings suggested that EPA restored proteasomal activity, helping clear the Aβ build-up.
We further explored the role of PPAR-gamma, a receptor that appears to be crucial for EPA's protective effects. When we used an inhibitor to block PPAR-gamma, the positive outcomes of EPA treatment were no longer evident. This suggests that EPA’s beneficial effects in fighting Aβ-induced toxicity are linked to its ability to activate PPAR-gamma.
Overall, our research underscores the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid as a promising therapeutic option for mitigating Alzheimer's symptoms by enhancing cellular functions.
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8
EPA disrupts Aβ fibrils
Destabilization of Aβ fibrils by omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: a molecular dynamics study.
We explored the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in destabilizing the toxic aggregates of the Aβ protein that form plaques in Alzheimer's disease. The study utilized advanced molecular dynamics simulations to assess how EPA interacts with these fibrils over time.
Throughout the analysis, we observed that EPA not only binds to the Aβ fibrils but also disrupts their structure. As a result, we noted increased root mean square deviation, radius of gyration, and surface area while the number of hydrogen bonds and β-sheet content decreased. This indicates that EPA interferes with the fibrils' stability, potentially paving the way for therapeutic applications in Alzheimer’s treatment.
Importantly, the interactions demonstrated that the polar head of EPA aligns with positively charged residues in the fibril, showcasing a clear mechanism behind its destabilizing effects. The hydrophobic tail of EPA competes with the natural hydrophobic interactions within the fibrils, ultimately leading to their destabilization. Overall, our findings suggest that EPA could be a promising candidate for further drug development aimed at combating Alzheimer’s disease.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Alzheimer prevention
1 people found this helpful
The quality is superb. Omega-3 PUFAs provide energy for signalling between neurons, enhancing memory and attention. A deficiency impairs these functions. Studies show Omega-3 reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and slows cognitive decline, especially in patients who start supplementation early.
Read More
7.5
Joint pain reduction
1 people found this helpful
Fish oil supports heart health, reduces joint pain, and lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s. It enhances mood and is safe to use. I recommend it due to its excellent quality and benefits, which apply to everyone, excluding children.
Read More
7.5
Brain function improvement
I find this Omega-3 to be excellent with 360 mg EPA and 240 mg DHA. It greatly aids brain function and reduces Alzheimer’s risk, particularly valuable for children and the elderly. The balance of EPA and DHA is commendable, and it offers great value for money.
We explored how dietary eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), in combination with lysophosphatidylcholine and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), might influence retinal function in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our focus was on 5XFAD mice, a commonly used model for studying AD, to see if enriching retinal DHA levels could help alleviate visual impairments associated with the disease.
Our findings revealed that the 5XFAD mice had notably lower levels of retinal DHA compared to their healthy counterparts. Upon feeding them a diet rich in the lysophosphatidylcholine form of DHA and EPA, we observed a rapid normalization of DHA levels and a substantial increase in retinal EPA. In contrast, feeding them traditional forms of these fatty acids produced only modest improvements.
After two months on the special diet, we recorded significant enhancements in retinal function measured through electroretinography, particularly in a-wave and b-wave responses. Additionally, the levels of retinal amyloid beta, a marker associated with AD, were reduced by about 50% with the dietary intervention, compared to a mere 17% reduction with the standard formulation.
Overall, our study suggests that boosting DHA and EPA levels in the retina through a unique dietary method may improve vision-related issues in Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the potential of these nutrients in supporting retinal health as part of a broader treatment strategy.
Read More
9
Eicosapentaenoic Acid shows promise
Efficacy and acceptability of anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid for cognitive function in Alzheimer's dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials with omega-3 fatty acids and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy.
We conducted a comprehensive analysis of how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, affects cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Our research included 52 randomized controlled trials involving over 21,000 participants, making this one of the most extensive evaluations in this field.
The goal was to determine whether high doses of EPA could provide significant improvement in cognitive abilities and how this treatment compares to other FDA-approved medications. After examining the data, we found that long-term use of EPA at doses between 1500 and 2000 mg per day, especially when enhanced with antioxidants, had the greatest potential for improving cognitive function in people with AD.
In terms of acceptability and safety, we observed that EPA was comparable to placebo, meaning that the discontinuation rates and side effects were similar. These insights reinforce the notion that anti-inflammatory properties of EPA could play a significant role in managing cognitive decline among Alzheimer’s patients.
Looking ahead, we believe that future research should investigate different dosages of EPA, focusing on how it might help individuals with varying levels of inflammation and psychiatric symptoms.
Read More
9
DHA's role in Alzheimer's management
Cosupplementation with DHA and medium-chain triglycerides ameliorates NAFLD and reduces amyloid-β accumulation by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism in APP/PS1 mice.
We aimed to uncover how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) might affect Alzheimer's disease, particularly in relation to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our study involved 40 three-month-old male APP/PS1 mice, which are commonly used in Alzheimer's research, divided into four groups. These groups ate different diets—one with DHA, one with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), one with both, and one control—as we observed their impacts on liver health and amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulations over eight months.
Our findings showed that mice with Alzheimer's displayed both NAFLD and increased levels of Aβ in their brains. Interestingly, the combination of DHA and MCTs led to lower blood and liver lipids. It also alleviated fat buildup in the liver and reduced Aβ levels in both the brain and serum. Moreover, it effectively raised the levels of proteins linked to Aβ clearance while altering the expression of key enzymes related to liver lipid metabolism.
In essence, our research suggests that DHA, particularly when paired with MCTs, may offer protective benefits against the progression of NAFLD and simultaneously reduce Aβ accumulation. This could indicate a more significant response to metabolic changes in APP/PS1 mice compared to normal mice. Our study adds to the understanding of DHA's potential role in managing Alzheimer's disease through its effects on liver metabolism and Aβ processing.
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9
DHA shows promise in Alzheimer's
Nose-to-brain delivery of DHA-loaded nanoemulsions: A promising approach against Alzheimer's disease.
We investigated the potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in fighting Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a novel intranasal administration method. By using a specially formulated nanoemulsion that protects DHA from oxidation, we aimed to enhance its delivery to the brain. In our study, we administered this DHA-rich nanoemulsion to J20 mice, a well-known transgenic model for AD.
The results were promising. After treatment, the mice showed notable improvements in their well-being and memory performance, which we measured through their ability to navigate spatial tasks. Additionally, we observed a significant reduction in harmful amyloid deposits, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation within their brain tissues. This positive outcome could potentially stem from DHA's ability to affect specific processes in the brain, such as the inactivation of GSK3β, a kinase associated with AD.
Overall, our findings suggest that intranasal DHA treatment not only has therapeutic effects but may also modify the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Considering that DHA has already demonstrated safety in humans, we believe there is a strong case for conducting clinical trials to explore this approach further for Alzheimer's patients.
Read More
9
DHA shows potential in AD treatment
Up-regulation of myelin-associated glycoprotein is associated with the ameliorating effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on Alzheimer's disease progression in APP-PS1 transgenic mice.
We examined how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, could influence Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. To do this, we crossed special mice known for their ability to produce higher levels of omega-3s with another group genetically predisposed to develop AD. The goal was to see if increased DHA in their brains would improve their cognition and reduce harmful protein levels associated with AD.
Our findings were compelling. Mice with elevated DHA levels showed fewer cognitive deficits and lower levels of amyloid-beta, the protein linked to AD, compared to those that lacked this enhancement. We also found that this improvement was associated with higher expression of myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) in key brain areas involved in learning and memory. This suggests a potential mechanism through which DHA exerts its protective effects.
Additionally, our analysis indicated that the protective properties of DHA were compromised when MAG expression was inhibited. This reinforces the idea that up-regulation of MAG is crucial for DHA’s beneficial effects against AD. Overall, our research highlights DHA as a promising avenue for Alzheimer's treatment due to its ability to enhance MAG expression and support cognitive function.
The quality is superb. Omega-3 PUFAs provide energy for signalling between neurons, enhancing memory and attention. A deficiency impairs these functions. Studies show Omega-3 reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and slows cognitive decline, especially in patients who start supplementation early.
Read More
7.5
Joint pain reduction
1 people found this helpful
Fish oil supports heart health, reduces joint pain, and lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s. It enhances mood and is safe to use. I recommend it due to its excellent quality and benefits, which apply to everyone, excluding children.
Read More
7.5
Brain function improvement
I find this Omega-3 to be excellent with 360 mg EPA and 240 mg DHA. It greatly aids brain function and reduces Alzheimer’s risk, particularly valuable for children and the elderly. The balance of EPA and DHA is commendable, and it offers great value for money.
Read More
7.5
Memory enhancements
Omega-3 has significantly improved my physical and emotional well-being. I feel energised and have noticed better blood analysis results. It’s essential for brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention. The capsules are easy to swallow, and I highly recommend this supplement.
Read More
7.5
Reduces Alzheimer’s risk
I appreciate the 360 mg EPA and 240 mg DHA content in this Omega-3. It plays a crucial role in brain function and lowering Alzheimer’s risk. This supplement is known for its positive benefits, which are widely recognised.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects memory and cognitive function. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for the decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease typically begins with mild memory loss, particularly trouble remembering recent events or conversations, and can progress to more severe symptoms such as confusion, difficulty speaking, and ultimately, the inability to carry out simple tasks. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is not fully understood, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that lead to the degeneration of brain cells.
As the disease progresses, individuals may experience changes in mood and behavior, which can create challenges for caregivers and loved ones. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, certain medications and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Researchers are actively working on finding more effective treatments and exploring ways to prevent or slow the onset of the disease. Understanding Alzheimer's is crucial for early detection and intervention, which can help maintain independence for as long as possible and enhance the overall well-being of those affected.
Omega-3 fish oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the fatty tissues of fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. The most significant types of omega-3s found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are known for their numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and promoting brain function.
Incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your diet can be beneficial if you don’t consume enough fish regularly. Many health experts recommend oily fish as a part of a balanced diet due to their high omega-3 content. For those who find it difficult to include fish in their meals, fish oil supplements can offer a convenient alternative, providing the same essential fatty acids in concentrated form. However, it’s essential to choose high-quality supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency to avoid contaminants such as heavy metals or other toxins that can impact health.
While the connection between omega-3 fish oil and Alzheimer’s disease continues to be a subject of research, current evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, may play a role in supporting brain health. Some studies indicate that these essential fatty acids could help reduce inflammation and support cognitive function, which are both critical factors in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. However, it’s important to note that the research is not definitive, and there is no clear consensus in the medical community regarding the effectiveness of omega-3 supplements as a treatment or preventive measure for Alzheimer’s.
If you're considering incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your routine, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you assess your dietary needs and provide guidance on proper dosages and product selection. In the meantime, focusing on a balanced diet rich in fish, nuts, and seeds may provide some benefits for brain health and overall wellness. Remember, while omega-3s can be part of a healthy lifestyle, they should not be viewed as a standalone remedy for Alzheimer’s disease.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from Omega-3 supplementation in relation to Alzheimer's can vary widely among individuals. Some users report significant improvements in cognitive function and overall well-being shortly after starting the supplement. For instance, one reviewer mentioned feeling energised and noticing better blood analysis results, which they attributed to Omega-3's benefits for brain health and Alzheimer's prevention (Read Review). Others highlighted that starting supplementation early can be particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s (Read Review).
However, it's important to note that the effects may not be immediate for everyone, and substantial cognitive improvements, if any, might take longer to manifest. While some users experience positive changes within weeks, others may not see noticeable results for months. The consistency of taking the supplement appears to play a crucial role in achieving desired outcomes, as noted by multiple reviewers sharing their positive experiences over time. Ultimately, patience and ongoing use seem key factors in reaping the cognitive benefits of Omega-3 in relation to Alzheimer’s care.
Recent research suggests that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, may hold potential benefits in the context of Alzheimer's disease, though findings remain complex and sometimes inconclusive. In various studies, EPA has shown promising effects on specific biomarkers associated with Alzheimer's, such as the reduction of phosphorylated tau levels and amyloid-β accumulation in mice models [2]. Additionally, long-term supplementation with EPA has been linked to cognitive improvements and appears well-tolerated among participants, although it didn't significantly affect all individuals alike [8]. Notably, a systematic review highlighted that while many studies involving omega-3s reported positive overall cognitive outcomes, isolating the specific benefits of EPA from those of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and other omega-3 combinations has proven challenging [4].
Moreover, some trials indicate that EPA might be particularly beneficial for certain genetic profiles, specifically those carrying the APOE4 allele, which is known to influence Alzheimer's risk [3]. However, while these initial findings are encouraging, further research is necessary to clarify EPA's distinct role and effectiveness in treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease, as most studies combine it with DHA or other treatments [1]. Until more definitive conclusions can be drawn, incorporating EPA through diet or supplements could be considered as part of a holistic approach to brain health, but should not replace traditional medical interventions [8].
Users report a range of improvements in symptoms associated with Omega-3 supplementation, particularly regarding cognitive function and overall well-being. Many reviewers highlight significant enhancements in memory and attention, asserting that Omega-3s contribute positively to brain health and help lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease. For instance, one user noted a marked improvement in their physical and emotional well-being, feeling energized and observing positive changes in blood analysis after starting the supplement (Read Review). Additionally, several users emphasize that starting supplementation early can be especially beneficial in mitigating cognitive decline and preventing Alzheimer's (Read Review).
Other anecdotal experiences suggest Omega-3 aids not only brain function but also mood enhancement and cardiovascular health. Reviewers have appreciated its role in combating memory-related issues and providing overall cognitive support, with some even mentioning its effects on joint pain and skin health (Read Review). However, it's essential to keep in mind that individual results can vary, and while many have experienced positive changes, the timeline and extent of these benefits may differ from person to person.
Users report a strong belief in the synergistic effects of combining Omega-3 with other supplements for supporting brain health and managing Alzheimer's symptoms. Reviews suggest that Omega-3 not only enhances cognitive function and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's but may also work well alongside other nutrients. For instance, one user mentioned the importance of Omega-3 in protecting against cognitive decline, especially when taken in conjunction with other supplements that aid brain function, although specific combinations were not detailed (Read Review). Another reviewer emphasized the comprehensive benefits of Omega-3, including improvements in mood and memory-related issues, which could be complemented by other dietary supplements that target those areas (Read Review).
While the available reviews do not provide specific evidence of successful supplement combinations or detailed protocols, users affirm that Omega-3’s role in enhancing cognitive health positions it as a beneficial addition to any regimen targeting Alzheimer's care. Its report of multiple health benefits—ranging from improved brain function to better overall well-being—lends support to the idea that it may effectively complement other nutritional strategies (Read Review). Overall, the consensus is that users value Omega-3 as a crucial component in a broader approach to Alzheimer’s health management.
According to recent research, the optimal dosing of Omega-3 Fish Oil, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) appears to be in the range of 1500 to 2000 mg per day. A comprehensive analysis involving over 21,000 participants indicated that this dosage has the potential for significant cognitive improvement, particularly when supplemented with antioxidants [8]. It’s important to note that while EPA's benefits are considerable, much of the evidence surrounding its impact on Alzheimer's comes with varying degrees of complexity, often blended with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) [3].
In studies where EPA was administered, there were concrete observations of reductions in markers associated with Alzheimer’s symptoms, including improved neuronal integrity among specific genetic subgroups [3]. While the positive cognitive effects linked to omega-3 supplementation have been noted by many research efforts, isolating EPA's unique impact remains challenging due to confounding factors [4]. Overall, these insights underline the promise of EPA as a therapeutic agent against Alzheimer’s when administered at these effective doses.
7.5
Memory enhancements
Omega-3 has significantly improved my physical and emotional well-being. I feel energised and have noticed better blood analysis results. It’s essential for brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention. The capsules are easy to swallow, and I highly recommend this supplement.
9
Alzheimer prevention
1 people found this helpful
The quality is superb. Omega-3 PUFAs provide energy for signalling between neurons, enhancing memory and attention. A deficiency impairs these functions. Studies show Omega-3 reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and slows cognitive decline, especially in patients who start supplementation early.
7.5
Improves memory
Omega-3 enhances heart health and reduces memory-related issues. It reduces triglycerides and has benefits for skin, hair, and nails. It plays a role in combating Alzheimer’s disease, improving overall cognitive functions.
7.5
Brain function improvement
I find this Omega-3 to be excellent with 360 mg EPA and 240 mg DHA. It greatly aids brain function and reduces Alzheimer’s risk, particularly valuable for children and the elderly. The balance of EPA and DHA is commendable, and it offers great value for money.
7
EPA influences Alzheimer's biomarkers
Differential impact of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease.
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), compared to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on Alzheimer's disease in a study involving 3xTg-AD mice. Over the course of three months, these mice received different dietary supplements: one group had no added DHA or EPA, another group received DHA with low EPA, and a third group was provided with lower DHA and a higher amount of EPA.
Our findings revealed that the DHA and DHA plus EPA diets increased brain levels of these fatty acids while reducing levels of arachidonic acid. Importantly, both dietary interventions decreased levels of a protein associated with Alzheimer’s (phosphorylated tau), which is a positive outcome. However, we found no significant changes in amyloid-beta levels, another key marker in Alzheimer’s research.
The results suggest that while both DHA and EPA could lead to beneficial outcomes, the presence of EPA in higher amounts specifically lowered insoluble phosphorylated tau, indicating a potential advantage. Yet, it’s important to note that EPA’s unique effects are blended with DHA’s, complicating a direct assessment of EPA alone.
9
Eicosapentaenoic Acid shows promise
Efficacy and acceptability of anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid for cognitive function in Alzheimer's dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials with omega-3 fatty acids and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy.
We conducted a comprehensive analysis of how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, affects cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Our research included 52 randomized controlled trials involving over 21,000 participants, making this one of the most extensive evaluations in this field.
The goal was to determine whether high doses of EPA could provide significant improvement in cognitive abilities and how this treatment compares to other FDA-approved medications. After examining the data, we found that long-term use of EPA at doses between 1500 and 2000 mg per day, especially when enhanced with antioxidants, had the greatest potential for improving cognitive function in people with AD.
In terms of acceptability and safety, we observed that EPA was comparable to placebo, meaning that the discontinuation rates and side effects were similar. These insights reinforce the notion that anti-inflammatory properties of EPA could play a significant role in managing cognitive decline among Alzheimer’s patients.
Looking ahead, we believe that future research should investigate different dosages of EPA, focusing on how it might help individuals with varying levels of inflammation and psychiatric symptoms.
7
Effectiveness of EPA on Alzheimer's
The effects of omega-3, DHA, EPA, Souvenaid® in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We set out to understand the role of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and its effects on Alzheimer’s disease through a systematic review and meta-analysis of various studies. The research included a wide range of studies that looked at how dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), influenced cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's.
Our analysis reviewed 14 studies involving 2,766 participants, and we found that the overall effects of these supplements were promising. While many studies reported beneficial cognitive outcomes—about 58% noted improvements—the effect of EPA specifically was harder to isolate from other omega-3 supplements and Souvenaid®.
We noted that the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale, a measure of cognitive decline, showed a significant slowdown in progression among those taking omega-3 supplements. However, it’s essential to mention that there weren't any significant differences found between the various types of supplements used. Additionally, while Souvenaid® appeared to negatively affect ventricular volume, EPA’s specific impact remains clouded by the combination with other supplements.
Overall, while EPA is part of the discussion, distinguishing its unique benefits in Alzheimer’s treatment is challenging due to the complexities of the study designs and confounding factors.
4
Eicosapentaenoic acid's limited effectiveness
ω-3 PUFA for Secondary Prevention of White Matter Lesions and Neuronal Integrity Breakdown in Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
We conducted a study to investigate whether eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, could help reduce white matter lesions (WMLs) in older adults. These lesions are often associated with small-vessel ischemic disease, a factor in the development of dementia, including Alzheimer’s.
Over three years, we compared the effects of EPA treatment against a placebo in a group of participants aged 75 and older who had WMLs and low omega-3 levels. The study was well-designed, incorporating a quadruple-blind, placebo-controlled method to ensure unbiased results.
While our findings revealed that EPA treatment was safe and well-tolerated among participants, it did not lead to significant reductions in WML accumulation for the whole group. However, we saw a promising reduction in neuronal integrity breakdown specifically among those carrying the APOE*E4 allele, indicating that this treatment may be particularly beneficial for that subset of older adults.
Overall, while the general outcomes were not conclusive for all participants, there seems to be some potential for EPA treatment in a specific group, suggesting that further research is needed to fully understand its impact.
4
Eicosapentaenoic acid affects brain levels
Providing lysophosphatidylcholine-bound omega-3 fatty acids increased eicosapentaenoic acid, but not docosahexaenoic acid, in the cortex of mice with the apolipoprotein E3 or E4 allele.
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on Alzheimer’s disease-related conditions through a study involving the administration of lysophosphatidylcholine-bound omega-3 fatty acids to mice with different genetic backgrounds. Specifically, we looked at how these supplements affected levels of EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the brains of mice that carry the apolipoprotein E ε3 (APOE3) or ε4 (APOE4) allele.
Over two and four months, the mice were given oral doses of LPC n-3, containing both EPA and DHA, and compared to a control group that received sunflower oil. After two months, we observed that the EPA levels increased in the brains of APOE3 mice, while there was no significant change in EPA or DHA levels for the APOE4 mice. After four months, both groups had elevated EPA levels, but DHA showed no significant improvement.
These findings suggest that while EPA supplementation can increase EPA levels in the brain, especially in those with the APOE3 allele, the same cannot be said for DHA or for APOE4 carriers. This highlights important differences in how genetic factors can influence the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acid treatments.
References
Andriambelo B, Vachon A, Dansereau MA, Laurent B, Plourde M. Providing lysophosphatidylcholine-bound omega-3 fatty acids increased eicosapentaenoic acid, but not docosahexaenoic acid, in the cortex of mice with the apolipoprotein E3 or E4 allele. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2024;204:102661. 10.1016/j.plefa.2024.102661
Oye Mintsa Mi-Mba MF, Lebbadi M, Alata W, Julien C, Emond V, et al. Differential impact of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease. J Lipid Res. 2024;65:100682. 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100682
Shinto LH, Murchison CF, Silbert LC, Dodge HH, Lahna D, et al. ω-3 PUFA for Secondary Prevention of White Matter Lesions and Neuronal Integrity Breakdown in Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7:e2426872. 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.26872
Calderon Martinez E, Zachariah Saji S, Salazar Ore JV, Borges-Sosa OA, Srinivas S, et al. The effects of omega-3, DHA, EPA, Souvenaid® in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep. 2024;44:545. 10.1002/npr2.12455
Wang Y, Zhang H, Ding F, Li J, Li L, et al. N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids attenuate amyloid-beta-induced toxicity in AD transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans via promotion of proteasomal activity and activation of PPAR-gamma. J Nutr Biochem. 2024;127:109603. 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109603
Wang YW, Li Q, Li XY, Zhao YC, Wang CC, et al. A Comparative Study about the Neuroprotective Effects of DHA-Enriched Phosphatidylserine and EPA-Enriched Phosphatidylserine against Oxidative Damage in Primary Hippocampal Neurons. Mar Drugs. 2023;21. 10.3390/md21070410
Sugasini D, Park JC, McAnany JJ, Kim TH, Ma G, et al. Improvement of retinal function in Alzheimer disease-associated retinopathy by dietary lysophosphatidylcholine-EPA/DHA. Sci Rep. 2023;13:9179. 10.1038/s41598-023-36268-0
Tseng PT, Zeng BS, Suen MW, Wu YC, Correll CU, et al. Efficacy and acceptability of anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid for cognitive function in Alzheimer's dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials with omega-3 fatty acids and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy. Brain Behav Immun. 2023;111:352. 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.04.017
Wei BZ, Li L, Dong CW, Tan CC, Xu W. The Relationship of Omega-3 Fatty Acids with Dementia and Cognitive Decline: Evidence from Prospective Cohort Studies of Supplementation, Dietary Intake, and Blood Markers. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023;117:1096. 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.04.001
Yavari M, Ramalingam L, Harris BN, Kahathuduwa CN, Chavira A, et al. Eicosapentaenoic Acid Protects against Metabolic Impairments in the APPswe/PS1dE9 Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model. J Nutr. 2023;153:1038. 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.01.030
Yang L, Zhao F, Sun Y, Wang Z, Li Q, et al. N-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Elderly with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis. 2024;99:S81. 10.3233/JAD-220863
Li Y, Lai W, Zheng C, Babu JR, Xue C, et al. Neuroprotective Effect of Stearidonic Acid on Amyloid β-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rat Hippocampal Cells. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022;11. 10.3390/antiox11122357
Torres-Mendoza BMG, Ortiz GG, Sánchez-Romero L, Delgado-Lara DLC, García Martínez MT, et al. Dietary fish oil increases catalase activity in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease. Nutr Hosp. 2022;39:1364. 10.20960/nh.04153
Chu CS, Hung CF, Ponnusamy VK, Chen KC, Chen NC. Higher Serum DHA and Slower Cognitive Decline in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: Two-Year Follow-Up. Nutrients. 2022;14. 10.3390/nu14061159
Gupta S, Dasmahapatra AK. Destabilization of Aβ fibrils by omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: a molecular dynamics study. J Biomol Struct Dyn. 2023;41:581. 10.1080/07391102.2021.2009915
Lin PY, Cheng C, Satyanarayanan SK, Chiu LT, Chien YC, et al. Omega-3 fatty acids and blood-based biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. Brain Behav Immun. 2022;99:289. 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.10.014
Zhang D, Wang Z, Wang X, Yue W, Zhang L, et al. Cosupplementation with DHA and medium-chain triglycerides ameliorates NAFLD and reduces amyloid-β accumulation by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism in APP/PS1 mice. Lipids. 2025. 10.1002/lipd.12436
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