[Membranotropic effect of a new derivative of N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids during experimental stress]

A new derivative of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) has been studied for its effect on membrane lipid composition and peroxidation under long-term pretreatment in Wistar male rats under experimental stress. The purpose of the study was to determine membrane mechanisms of the stress-protective effect of this preparation found in our previous investigations. A significant increase of lipid peroxidation and suppression of the main enzymes of free-radical protective system (catalase, superoxide dismutase) were observed in erythrocyte membranes of rats after the long-term stress. Phospholipid and cholesterol composition of membranes was also altered. Cholesterol/phospholipid ratio and lysophosphatide content in erythrocyte membranes were increased. These changes were less pronounced in the pretreated group. Some indices even did not differ from those in the non-stressed group. These results indicate that the long-term pretreatment with n-3 PUFA in rats partially protects membrane lipid composition, stress-induced alterations and prevents suppression of membrane-bound enzymes.