Docosahexaenoic acid helps asthmaLipid mediators obtained from docosahexaenoic acid by soybean lipoxygenase alleviate ovalbumin‑induced allergic asthma in mice by reducing airway inflammation and oxidative stress.
We explored the potential of lipid mediators derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for alleviating allergic asthma. Using a model where mice were challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) to induce asthma-like symptoms, we administered lipid mediators that included 17S-monohydroxy DHA, resolvin D5, and protectin DX. These treatments led to significant improvements in key aspects of asthma such as reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and lower levels of Th2 cytokines.
Following treatment with the lipid mediators, we observed decreased levels of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IgE—important markers associated with allergic reactions. There was a notable reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress in lung tissues, which suggests a protective effect on the lungs. Additionally, histological examinations revealed fewer signs of inflammation and mucus secretion.
The results indicate that DHA-derived lipid mediators may effectively mitigate the symptoms of allergic asthma and offer a promising new approach for treatment. They seem to act by reducing inflammation and improving antioxidant defenses within the lungs.
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New hypoallergenic formula shows promiseHypoallergenicity assessment of an extensively hydrolyzed whey-protein formula in cow's milk allergic infants.
We set out to assess a new extensively hydrolyzed whey-protein formula, which includes docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), for infants with cow's milk allergy (CMA). This study involved 34 children, primarily with IgE-mediated reactions, participating in a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge. Remarkably, all the children tolerated the new formula during the trial. This is significant since the American Academy of Pediatrics states that successful tolerance in over 90% of CMA children is crucial for a product to be considered hypoallergenic.
Although our focus was on the overall efficacy and safety of this formula, it's important to note that while DHA was included, we stopped short of isolating its specific impact on allergy outcomes. Thus, while we noted that this new formula is well-tolerated and associated with healthy growth and gastrointestinal tolerability, we cannot definitively state the effect of DHA alone on allergies. We recognize that further research would be needed to explore DHA's specific role in allergy management.
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ARA and DHA enhance allergy toleranceFeeding Docosahexaenoic Acid and Arachidonic Acid during Suckling and Weaning Contributes to Oral Tolerance Development by Beneficially Modulating the Intestinal Cytokine and Immunoglobulin Levels in an Allergy-Prone Brown Norway Rat Model.
Our study focused on the effects of dietary supplementation with arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) during suckling and weaning phases in allergy-prone Brown Norway rats. We aimed to understand how this supplementation might influence the development of oral tolerance to allergens.
By dividing the mother rats into two groups, one receiving a standard diet and the other supplemented with ARA and DHA, we tracked the outcomes in their offspring. Following weaning, the pups continued on either diet before being exposed to an allergen. We assessed intestinal health and immune responses by examining key indicators like secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and various cytokines that can help build an allergy-tolerant environment.
The results were promising. We observed that the ARA and DHA supplementation effectively increased DHA levels in the intestines, particularly in phospholipids during weaning. Additionally, the levels of protective molecules like sIgA, IL-2, and TGF-β were enhanced, suggesting that this dietary intervention plays a beneficial role in fostering a tolerogenic intestinal atmosphere.
Overall, our findings indicate that early dietary ARA and DHA supplementation may help reduce allergy development by promoting a healthier immune system during critical developmental periods.
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Omega-3s improve pediatric dermatitisEffect of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Clinical Outcome of Atopic Dermatitis in Children.
We explored the effects of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically in the context of treating atopic dermatitis (AD) in children. This involved a well-structured clinical trial featuring 52 children, divided into two groups: one receiving a blend of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and the other receiving a placebo.
Over a course of four months, we observed significant improvements in children taking the active product. Those in the treatment group experienced a marked decrease in AD severity and reduced reliance on topical corticosteroids. Improvements were also noted in terms of itch intensity, sleep quality, and overall family quality of life.
Although the study utilized a combination of omega-3 fatty acids, gamma-linolenic acid, and vitamin D, the findings suggest that this specific blend may offer a safe and effective way to alleviate symptoms of atopic dermatitis in pediatric patients. Therefore, omega-3 fatty acids like DHA may play a beneficial role in managing allergies, particularly in children suffering from AD.
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Hydrolyzed formula aids allergiesThe use of hydrolyzed formulas as a method of correction of feeding and clinical rehabilitation of infants with atopy signs.
We explored how a specific formula, known as mixture X, affects infants with allergic symptoms, particularly those showing signs of atopic dermatitis. This formula contains vital ingredients like 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL), Bifidobacterium lactis, DHA, ARA, and nucleotides.
Our findings suggest that this mixture not only provides essential nutrients for infants but also helps in mitigating the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. We observed a significant reduction in skin signs of allergies, with scores dropping from 32.8 to 16.1, signaling improvement.
Furthermore, we noted enhancements in overall health metrics, such as increased weight, height, and blood cell counts. This outcome suggests that DHA, along with other components, may play a beneficial role in managing allergies in newborns.
However, it's essential to recognize that while the results are promising, the combined effect of all ingredients makes it challenging to isolate DHA's specific impact on allergies. Thus, more focused research could provide clearer insights into DHA's role.
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