Related Experiment Videos
Dietary changes in membrane lipids and leucocyte calcium
R F Bing1, A M Heagerty, J D Swales
1Department of Medicine, University of Leicester, England.
Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Supplementing with linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, reduced white blood cell (leukocyte) calcium levels. This suggests cell membrane fatty acids influence intracellular calcium regulation.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Cell membrane phospholipids' fatty acid composition is theorized to influence ion transport.
- Intracellular calcium regulation is critical for various cellular functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membrane ion handling.
- To determine if linoleic acid supplementation affects intracellular calcium levels in leukocytes.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted.
- 25 normotensive volunteers received 4g daily of safflower oil (linoleic acid) or placebo for 4 weeks.
- Leukocyte ionized calcium levels and blood pressure were measured.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in leukocyte ionized calcium was observed after linoleic acid supplementation compared to placebo.
- No significant differences were found in subjects with or without a family history of hypertension.
- No significant effect on blood pressure was detected.
Conclusions:
- Cell membrane fatty acid composition, specifically linoleic acid, plays a role in regulating intracellular calcium in leukocytes.
- These findings suggest a potential mechanism for how fatty acids impact cellular calcium homeostasis, possibly extending to other tissues.