Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and eicosanoids in infants - Physiological and pathophysiological aspects and open questions

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.