Long-chain n-3 PUFA against breast and prostate cancer: Which are the appropriate doses for intervention studies in animals and humans?

abstract

The potential antineoplastic effect of the long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA) eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) remains a highly controversial issue. Numerous animal studies have supported the anticancer role of these dietary fatty acids, whereas conflicting results have been obtained in population studies, and only a few intervention human trials have been so far performed. In view of the possibility that the anticancer effects may be maximally observed within a defined range of EPA and DHA doses, herein we critically review the results and doses used in both animal studies and human clinical trials focusing on the possible n-3 PUFA protective effects against breast and prostate cancer. Our main aim is to identify the EPA and/or DHA ranges of doses needed to obtain clear anticancer effects. This may be of great help in designing future animal studies, and also in understanding the most appropriate dose for further human intervention studies. Moreover, since the healthy effects of these fatty acids have been strictly related to their increased incorporation in plasma and tissue lipids, we also examine and discuss the incorporation changes following the administration of the effective anticancer EPA and/or DHA doses in animals and humans.

Keywords:

• Bioavailability
• breast cancer
• dose
• incorporation
• n-3 PUFA
• prostate cancer

Funding

This work was supported in part by grant D.1 2011 to G. Calviello from “Università Cattolica del S. Cuore,” Rome, Italy, within its program of promotion and diffusion of scientific research.