Abstract
Background
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are intrinsic cell membrane components and closely
involved in neurotransmission and receptor function. Lower omega-3 levels are associated
with increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), increases in cardiac events
in CAD patients, and depression. We sought to examine relationships between depression
and serum levels of omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs in patients recovering from acute coronary
syndromes (ACS).
Methods
We carried out a case-control study of serum PUFA levels and current major depression
in 54 age- and sex-matched pairs approximately 2 months following ACS.
Results
Depressed patients had significantly lower concentrations of total omega-3 and docosahexaenoic
acid (DHA), and higher ratios of arachidonic acid (AA) to DHA, AA to eicosapentaenoic
acid (EPA), and n-3 to n-6 than controls. There were no baseline differences in any
potential risk or protective factors for depression.
Conclusions
Results are consistent with previous reports in depressed patients without CAD, and
with literature concerning omega-3 levels and risk of CAD events. Dietary, genetic,
and hormonal factors may all play a role in both depression and CAD. Both prospective
studies and randomized trials are needed to help clarify the interrelationships.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
January 13,
2004
Received in revised form:
January 7,
2004
Received:
September 19,
2003
Identification
Copyright
© 2004 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
