A. Sellmayer et B. Koletzko, Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and eicosanoids in infants - Physiological and pathophysiological aspects and open questions, LIPIDS, 34(2), 1999, pp. 199-205
Eicosanoids are highly active lipid mediators in physiologic and pathologic
processes, with their effects ranging from cytoprotection and vasoactivity
to modulation of inflammatory and proliferative reactions. Generation of e
icosanoids can be affected by changes in the pools of their precursors, the
long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA). Thus, dietary interventio
ns such as supplementation of infant formula with specific n-3 and n-6 LCPU
FA will alter formation as well as activity of the eicosanoids produced. Th
is report summarizes the results and discussion of the workshop on "Eicosan
oids and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Infants." The intention of the work
shop organizers was to give an overview of the role of eicosanoids in physi
ological and pathophysiological processes in infants, to discuss the implic
ations that an increased n-3 and n-6 LCPUFA intake may have on eicosanoid g
eneration, and to point out open questions and controversies for future res
earch.