Observing how EPA is metabolized considering genetics and sex
Official title: Determining Contribution of Sex and Genetics to DHA Synthesis Rates Over 12 Weeks of EPA Supplementation in Healthy Individuals
Run by University of Toronto · NCT06975241 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 29, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 2026 |
| Study ends | September 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06975241 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with chronic diseases, those on certain medications, or individuals with high omega-3 intake may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While studies on omega-3 metabolism exist, this specific focus on genetic and sex differences in EPA metabolism is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.