Relationship: Prostaglandins and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the body system: Prostaglandins

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis
Other ingredients for this body system
Other body systems supported by this ingredient
Products containing this ingredient

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found primarily in marine oils, such as fish oil. Its relevance to the prostaglandin body system stems from its role as a precursor for the synthesis of eicosanoids, including prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that perform diverse biological functions, including modulation of inflammation. EPA competes with arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) for the same enzymatic pathways (cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase), leading to the production of a different series of prostaglandins (the 3-series), which are generally less pro-inflammatory compared to those derived from arachidonic acid (the 2-series).

Multiple clinical studies and reviews have demonstrated that EPA supplementation can shift eicosanoid production toward less inflammatory mediators, which is particularly relevant in diseases characterized by chronic inflammation (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease). The anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to EPA’s ability to reduce the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and increase the formation of prostaglandin E3 (PGE3), which is less active in promoting inflammation.

While there is strong mechanistic and clinical evidence for EPA’s influence on prostaglandin-mediated pathways, the magnitude of clinical benefit can vary depending on the condition, dosage, and individual patient factors. Nevertheless, the scientific foundation supporting EPA’s role in modulating prostaglandin synthesis and function is robust and well-documented.

More about EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
More about Prostaglandins

Other body systems supported by EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Arteries
Blood
Brain
Circulatory System
Eyes
Heart
Immune System
Intestinal System
Joints
Liver
Lungs
Prostaglandins
Reproductive System
Respiratory System
Skin

Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the body system: Prostaglandins

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients that support Prostaglandins

Other body systems supported by EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)For the body system: Prostaglandins

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients that support Prostaglandins

Other body systems supported by EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the body system: Prostaglandins