Alterations in human leukocyte function induced by ingestion of eicosapentaenoic acid

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Two groups of six adults with persistent asthma, who were identical clinically, received 0.1 or 4 g of purified eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester (EPA) daily for 8 weeks. Both doses increased significantly the generation of leukotriene B5 (LTB5) from EPA by polymorphonuclear (PMN) and mononuclear leukocytes, while only the high dose decreased leukocyte arachidonic acid (AA) and the generation of LTB4 and prostaglandin E2 from AA. Only the high dose led to inhibition of PMN leukocyte chemotaxis to multiple stimuli by a mean of 57–70% (PP<0.01) without modifying the numbers of helper and suppressor T lymphocytes. EPA affects the functions of several types of leukocytes critical to inflammation and immunity.