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Review
. 2023 May 1;26(3):284-287.
doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000930. Epub 2023 Mar 20.

Heterogeneity in the response to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Saame Raza Shaikh  1 , Richard P Bazinet  2
Affiliations
Review

Heterogeneity in the response to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Saame Raza Shaikh et al. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: A central goal in the study of long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) is to translate findings from the basic sciences to the population level to improve human health and prevent chronic diseases. A tenet of this vision is to think in terms of precision medicine and nutrition, that is, stratification of individuals into differing groups that will have different needs across the lifespan for n-3 PUFAs. Therefore, there is a critical need to identify the sources of heterogeneity in the human population in the dietary response to n-3 PUFA intervention.

Recent findings: We briefly review key sources of heterogeneity in the response to intake of long chain n-3 PUFAs. These include background diet, host genome, composition of the gut microbiome, and sex. We also discuss the need to integrate data from newer rodent models (e.g. population-based approaches), multi -omics, and analyses of big data using machine learning and data-driven cluster analyses.

Summary: Accounting for vast heterogeneity in the human population, particularly with the use of big data integrated with preclinical evidence, will drive the next generation of precision nutrition studies and randomized clinical trials with long-chain n-3 PUFAs.

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Conflict of interest statement

Dr. Shaikh has received industry support for several conferences and research related to n-3 and n-7 fatty acids. Richard P. Bazinet has received industrial grants, including those matched by the Canadian government, and/or travel support related to work on brain fatty acid uptake from Arctic Nutrition, Bunge Ltd., Capsoil Technologies, DSM, Fonterra, Mead Johnson, Natures Crops International, Nestec Inc and Pharmavite. Moreover, R.P.B. is on the executive committee of the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids and held a meeting on behalf of fatty acids and cell signaling, both of which rely on corporate sponsorship. R.P.B. has given expert testimony in relation to supplements and the brain.

References

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