Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) 20:5 n3

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid with 20 carbons and 5 double bonds (20:5n3).

EPA can either be made from the downstream metabolism of ALA or it can be obtained in the diet. Food sources include oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, cod, and sardines. In addition to diet and ALA desaturation, EPA is also available as a fish oil supplement. The desaturation of ALA to EPA is not a very efficient process, therefore dietary intake or supplementation is important.

As a precursor for prostaglandin-3 (which inhibits platelet aggregation), thromboxane-3, and leukotriene-5 eicosanoids, EPA carries special importance in the inflammatory cascade. EPA can also lower plasma triglyceride levels without raising low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Some studies suggest that in cardiovascular disease, EPA may decrease plaque vulnerability, prevent progression, and decrease macrophage accumulation. It is also vasodilatory which can lower blood pressure.

References:

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