Observing how EPA is metabolized considering genetics and sex
Determining Contribution of Sex and Genetics to DHA Synthesis Rates Over 12 Weeks of EPA Supplementation in Healthy Individuals
This study is testing how well healthy adults convert an omega-3 supplement into another important fatty acid, while looking at how genetics and sex might affect this process.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06975241 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical study aims to investigate the metabolism of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in healthy adults, focusing on how quickly EPA is converted to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and whether this conversion is influenced by biological sex and specific genetic factors. Participants will take EPA supplements for 12 weeks and provide blood samples to measure the conversion rates and levels of DHA and other metabolites. The study seeks to understand the dynamics of omega-3 fatty acid metabolism in relation to genetic and sex differences.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults with a BMI between 18.5 and 30 kg/m² who do not consume high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic diseases, those on certain medications, or individuals with high omega-3 intake may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into personalized nutrition strategies for optimizing omega-3 fatty acid metabolism.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on omega-3 metabolism exist, this specific focus on genetic and sex differences in EPA metabolism is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * BMI between 18.5- 30 kg/m2 * healthy Exclusion Criteria: * Consumption of fish/seafood or EPA/DHA-enriched foods currently or within the previous 6 months * Consumption of any supplements containing ALA/EPA/DHA currently or within the previous 6 months * Allergies to any component of the study supplement (fish, gelatin etc.) * BMI \<18.5 kg/m² or \>30 kg/m² * Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning on becoming pregnant * Diagnosis with chronic or communicable diseases * Prescription of chronic pharmacological medications (except for oral contraceptives) * High blood pressure (systolic or diastolic blood pressure above 130 or 80mmHg, respectively) * Hypertriglyceridemia (serum \> or = 1.69 mmol/l) * Hypercholesterolemia (serum LDL-C \> or =5 mmol/l) * Anticipated changes in lifestyle within the next 4 months * Smoking * Heavy alcohol use (\>3 drinks/day) * Major surgery in the last six months
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.