A recent study has revealed that fish oil supplements may significantly reduce the breakdown of brain nerve cells in individuals carrying the APOEε4 gene, a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. The study, which observed a dramatic reduction in the loss of brain cell integrity within just one year of fish oil treatment, suggests potential benefits for older adults with this genetic predisposition.
Conducted with a small sample size of 102 participants, the study employed a placebo-controlled design. Participants received either fish oil supplements or soybean oil as a placebo. Researchers utilized MRI scans to measure the development of white matter lesions, ultimately finding that those with the APOEε4 gene who took fish oil supplements exhibited significantly less nerve cell breakdown compared to those who received the placebo.
Positive effects only in people with APOEε4 gene
The study did not find a statistically significant difference between the placebo and fish oil groups in participants without the APOEε4 gene. Consequently, researchers suggested that fish oil supplements might be beneficial specifically for older people with the APOEε4 gene, but not necessarily for those without it.
Key findings indicate that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, present in fish oil may have anti-inflammatory effects that help mitigate brain inflammation and oxidative stress. “The specific genetic and biochemical environment in APOEε4 carriers might make them more responsive to the neuroprotective effects of Omega-3 PUFAs, thus leading to the observed reduction in neuronal integrity breakdown,” explained Dr. Steve Allder.
Despite the promising results, the authors emphasized the need for larger and more diverse sample sizes in future studies to confirm these findings and determine their generalizability. “Further research should include larger and more diverse sample sizes to confirm these findings and determine the generalizability of the results,” stated Allder.
Gene Bowman highlighted the innovative approach of this study, noting, “This is the first dementia prevention trial to use modern prevention tools, such as a blood test and brain scan, to identify not only people at high risk for dementia but also those well-suited to receive a specific nutritional intervention.”
Experts in the field have praised the study’s contributions. Philip Calder commented, “This is an exciting study with valuable new findings to guide future research into ways to prevent or slow cognitive decline and onset of Alzheimer’s Disease.”
Molly Rapozo, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), noted the safety considerations and potential dietary recommendations: “Though generally safe, there are age- and dose-dependent effects, especially for those with 2 copies of the APOE4 gene. In the meantime, up your intake of small cold-water fish which are good sources of omega-3 fats.”
As research continues, these findings could pave the way for more targeted nutritional interventions aimed at reducing Alzheimer‘s risk in genetically predisposed populations.
Parts of this article has been sourced by Healthline and fact-checked by Sarah Myers, PharmD
Featured Image by Racool_studio on Freepik
Leave a Reply