[Blood fluidity and omega-3 fatty acids]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cardiovascular Science
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids with a double bond at the third carbon.
• Their biological impact involves modulating blood lipids and eicosanoid patterns through competitive inhibition of omega-6 fatty acids.
• Hemorheological effects of omega-3 fatty acids have been previously reported.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the hemorheological effects of omega-3 fatty acids.
• To assess the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on red blood cell deformability, blood viscosity, plasma viscosity, and red cell aggregation.
• To explore the potential role of these hemorheological changes in delaying atherogenesis.

Main Methods:

• A placebo-controlled, double-blind study was conducted to evaluate dose-dependent effects.
• An open study involving hyperlipoproteinemic patients was performed.
• Measurements included red cell deformability, blood viscosity, plasma viscosity, and red cell aggregation.

Main Results:

• Omega-3 fatty acids increased red cell deformability and decreased blood viscosity in a dose-dependent manner.
• Higher doses led to a reduction in plasma viscosity and red cell aggregation.
• Treatment of hyperlipoproteinemic patients showed significant reductions in plasma viscosity and blood viscosity, alongside increased red cell deformability.

Conclusions:

• Omega-3 fatty acids exert beneficial hemorheological effects, including improved blood flow properties.
• These findings support the hypothesis that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in delaying the development of atherosclerosis.
• Hemorheological mechanisms are suggested to be involved in the atheroprotective effects of omega-3 fatty acids.