n-3 PUFA Sources (Precursor/Products): A Review of Current Knowledge on Rabbit

Abstract

This review compares the effects of different n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) sources on biological activity, physiological/reproductive endpoints, and health implications with a special emphasis on a rabbit case study. Linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) are members of two classes of PUFAs, namely the n-6 and n-3 series, which are required for normal human health. Both are considered precursors of a cascade of molecules (eicosanoids), which take part in many biological processes (inflammation, vasoconstriction/vasodilation, thromboregulation, etc.). However, their biological functions are opposite and are mainly related to the form (precursor or long-chain products) in which they were administered and to the enzyme-substrate preference. ALA is widely present in common vegetable oils and foods, marine algae, and natural herbs, whereas its long-chain PUFA derivatives are available mainly in fish and animal product origins. Recent studies have shown that the accumulation of n-3 PUFAs seems mostly to be tissue-dependent and acts in a tissue-selective manner. Furthermore, dietary n-3 PUFAs widely affect the lipid oxidation susceptibility of all tissues. In conclusion, sustainable sources of n-3 PUFAs are limited and exert a different effect about (1) the form in which they are administered, precursor or derivatives; (2) their antioxidant protections; and (3) the purpose to be achieved (health improvement, physiological and reproductive traits, metabolic pathways, etc.).

Keywords: PUFA metabolism; PUFA sources; rabbit; supplementation.

Figure 1

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) n-3 and n-6 biosynthetic pathways and physiological effects of their eicosanoid derivatives (modified by Patterson et al. [21]).

Figure 2

Fatty acids deposition in different tissues of rabbits fed different n-3 PUFA dietary sources (linseed or fish oil). (a) α-linolenic acid (ALA) distribution (% of total fatty acids) and (b) n-3 LC-PUFA distribution (% of total fatty acids).