Omega-3 fatty acids, atherogenesis, and endothelial activation

Omega-3 or n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) display a variety of beneficial effects on various organ systems and diseases. Evidence for cardiovascular protective effects was among the first reasons for biomedical interest in these fats. Following these initial reports, evidence has continued to emerge demonstrating the cardioprotective effects of n-3 PUFAs and elucidating the underlying biological mechanisms. Decreased atherogenesis is currently thought to account at least in part for cardiovascular protection by n-3 PUFAs. We summarise the evidence for such effects and the putative mechanisms involved.