Omega-3 fats EPA vs DHA: how they affect blood clotting and HDL in atherosclerosis
Official title: Differential thrombogenesis effects of EPA and DHA mediated by HDL
Funded at Miriam Hospital · NIH-11345184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether EPA and DHA have different effects on blood clotting and HDL function in people with atherogenic lipid problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Miriam Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $514,851 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL159204-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11345184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with atherogenic dyslipidemia who are eligible for omega-3–related interventions.
✕Less likely to help
People without dyslipidemia or those not fitting the study’s lipid profile criteria may not benefit.
What this research studies
Researchers will compare the biological effects of EPA and DHA at a therapeutic dose in adults with atherogenic dyslipidemia to understand how each fatty acid influences thrombogenesis and HDL behavior. The study will examine platelet activity, thrombosis-related pathways, and how HDL particles mediate these effects to explain inconsistencies seen in prior omega-3 trials. By conducting a head-to-head clinical assessment, investigators aim to uncover mechanism-based differences that could inform personalized omega-3 recommendations. Participants will contribute blood samples and clinical data to reveal how EPA and DHA differently modify cardiovascular risk factors. This proof-of-concept work could guide future trials and dietary guidance for reducing heart disease risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could lead to more precise omega-3 recommendations and improved strategies to lower cardiovascular risk in people with dyslipidemia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show mixed results; this head-to-head comparison is a novel approach to clarify differential effects.
Where this research is happening
-
Miriam Hospital
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Song, Wenliang — Miriam Hospital
- Study coordinator: Song, Wenliang
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.