Botanical lipids: potential role in modulation of immunologic responses and inflammatory reactions.

Enrichment of cells with fatty acids of particular botanical lipids alters cell function in vitro (for example, suppression of human synovial cell and T lymphocyte proliferation) in a manner that suggests that administration of these botanical lipids may be a useful therapeutic strategy for patients with diseases characterized by disordered immune responses and chronic inflammation. Treatment of animal models with certain plant seed oils suppresses inflammation and joint tissue injury. Controlled trials in patients with rheumatoid arthritis are in an early stage, but offer encouragement. The mechanisms whereby these novel lipids influence host defense include alteration of arachidonic acid oxygenation products and direct effects on cells independent of fatty acid metabolism.