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Ref: 06455
Omega-3 Supplementation
Omega-3 FA Supplementation for the Attenuation of Skeletal Muscle Disuse Atrophy
Using n3 PUFAs to slow muscle lost during periods of immobilization with no known negative physiological side effects
About
Background Results of an omega-3 fatty acid supplementation study indicated that the fatty acid formulation attenuated declines in skeletal muscle volume and mass during muscle-disuse in young women. Importantly, skeletal muscle volume and mass were fully recovered to Pre-immobilization levels in the Omega-3 group, but not in the Control group. Based on this study, researchers have proposed a supplementation formula and regimen to be used in patients to offset skeletal muscle loss during periods of skeletal muscle disuse. Technology Overview The present invention demonstrates that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation facilitates skeletal muscle recovery. Research has demonstrated that when young women consume long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) for 4 weeks prior to a period of skeletal muscle disuse – 2 weeks of single leg immobilization – they are protected against the loss of skeletal muscle mass, as well as derangements in mitochondrial function (a situation associated with many pathological conditions). The two, principle n-3 PUFAs that are responsible for this effect are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosohexaenoic acid (DHA) that are incorporated into the phospholipid membranes of skeletal muscle where they induce their protective influence. Dosage and treatment protocol have been optimized in this initial clinical study with further validation studies planned or underway. Further Details: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30629458 Stage of Development: Alongside that described in the above published work, the researchers have conducted proof-of-concept work in older men and women.
Key Benefits
The advantageous feature of using n-3 PUFAs to slow muscle lost during periods of immobilization are that prior to elective surgery, patients could use n-3 PUFA supplementation as a therapeutic tool to reduce muscle loss in response to surgery and as a means to enhance the recovery of skeletal muscle mass. At the dose proposed by the researchers, this approach has no known negative physiological side effects.
Applications
Nutritional supplementation prior to elective surgery to mitigate skeletal muscle atrophy and enhance recovery of muscles post-surgery.