Modulation of endothelial progenitor cell number and function with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Endothelial dysfunction is pivotal in atherosclerosis. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) predict cardiovascular events and could serve as a cellular biomarker of endothelial function. Epidemiological studies suggest the benefits of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), mainly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on cardiovascular health. However, there is a paucity of data on the effect of n-3 PUFA on EPC number and functionality. Incubation with DHA and EPA, either alone or in combination significantly increased the number of EPCs and colony forming units (CFU). In addition, co-incubation with DHA + EPA, significantly enhanced EPC migratory capacity, adhesive properties and greater incorporation into tubules. Thus, EPA + DHA are effective in improving EPC number and functionality in-vitro. Future studies will test the effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on EPC number and function in-vivo and will elucidate plausible mechanisms.