FLAXSEED - A POTENTIAL TREATMENT FOR LUPUS NEPHRITIS

Flaxseed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (alpha-LA) which has anti-ath erogenic properties, and lignans which are platelet activating factor (PAF)-receptor antagonists. These constituents of flaxseed, and its be neficial effects in the MRL/lpr lupus mouse prompted us to perform thi s dosing study in lupus nephritis patients. Nine patients were enrolle d, eight of whom completed the study. After the baseline studies, pati ents were given 15, 30, and 45 g of flaxseed/day sequentially at four week intervals, followed by a five-week washout period. Compliance, di sease activity, blood pressure, plasma lipids, theology, PAF-induced p latelet aggregation, renal function, and serum immunology were assesse d. Flaxseed-sachet count and a significant increase of serum alpha-LA indicated good compliance for 15 and 30 g doses. Total and LDL cholest erol, and blood viscosity were significantly reduced with 30 g and to a lesser extent 45 g doses. PAF-induced platelet aggregation was inhib ited by all doses. There was a significant decline in serum creatinine with 30 and 45 g, and a concomitant increase in creatinine clearance with increasing flaxseed dose. Proteinuria was reduced with 30 g and t o a lesser extent with 45 g of flaxseed. Complement C3 was significant ly elevated by all three doses. CD11b expression on neutrophils, a mea sure of C3bi receptors, was significantly reduced with the 30 g dose. In conclusion, 30 g flaxseed/day was well tolerated and conferred bene fit in terms of renal function as well as inflammatory and atherogenic mechanisms important in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis.