Modulation of endothelial progenitor cell number and function with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Atherosclerosis. 2013 May;228(1):94-7. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2013.02.036. Epub 2013 Mar 13.

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction is pivotal in atherosclerosis. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) predict cardiovascular events and could serve as a cellular biomarker of endothelial function. Epidemiological studies suggest the benefits of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), mainly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on cardiovascular health. However, there is a paucity of data on the effect of n-3 PUFA on EPC number and functionality. Incubation with DHA and EPA, either alone or in combination significantly increased the number of EPCs and colony forming units (CFU). In addition, co-incubation with DHA + EPA, significantly enhanced EPC migratory capacity, adhesive properties and greater incorporation into tubules. Thus, EPA + DHA are effective in improving EPC number and functionality in-vitro. Future studies will test the effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on EPC number and function in-vivo and will elucidate plausible mechanisms.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cell Adhesion / drug effects
  • Cell Count
  • Cell Movement / drug effects
  • Cell Proliferation / drug effects
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids / pharmacology
  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid / pharmacology
  • Endothelial Cells / cytology
  • Endothelial Cells / drug effects*
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / pharmacology*
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Leukocytes, Mononuclear / cytology
  • Leukocytes, Mononuclear / drug effects
  • Middle Aged
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Docosahexaenoic Acids
  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid