Omega-3 fatty acids: benefits for cardio-cerebro-vascular diseases.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS) is a narrowing of an intracranial artery, which is a common etiology for ischemic stroke. In this commentary, we review key aspects of the discrimination between non-stroke controls and ischemic stroke patients on the background of phospholipid ω3-fatty acid (DHA, EPA) composition. The discussion is embedded in the presentation of general effects of long-chain ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in cardio-cerebro-vascular diseases (CCVDs) and Alzheimer dementia (AD).

SUMMARY OF COMMENTARY

ICAS is a common stroke subtype and has emerged as a major factor in recurrent stroke and vascular mortality. DHA and EPA are important fatty acids to distinguish between NCAS (no cerebral arteriosclerotic stenosis) and ICAS in stroke. The risk of ICAS is inversely correlated with the DHA content in phospholipids. Furthermore, a mechanistic explanation has been proposed for the beneficial effects of PUFAs in CCVDs and AD.

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas the beneficial effects of EPA/DHA for cardiovascular diseases and stroke seem to be beyond question, preventive effects in patients with very mild cognitive dysfunction and beginning Alzheimer's disease undoubtedly need confirmation by larger clinical trials. A collaborative international basic science approach is warranted considering cautiously designed studies in order to avoid ethical problems.