Long-chain omega 3 fatty acids: molecular bases of potential antioxidant actions

Abstract

Several lines of investigation are being developed to assess the impact of polyunsaturated fatty acids, namely those of the omega 3 series, intake on oxidative stress. Keeping in mind that there might be a dose-response relation, in vivo and in vitro data strongly suggest that omega 3 fatty acids might act as anti- rather than pro-oxidant in several cells such as vascular cells, hence diminishing inflammation, oxidative stress, and, in turn, the risk of atherosclerosis and degenerative disorders such as cardiovascular disease.

Keywords: Antioxidants; Cardiovascular disease; Free radicals; Polyunsaturated fatty acids.