The effect of the plasma n-3/n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio on the dietary LDL phenotype transformation - Insights from the LIPGENE study

Background & aims: LDL phenotype B is associated with obesity, insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia and oxidative stress. The effect of plasma n-3/n-6 PUFA ratio on LDL phenotype transformation was investigated. Methods: Patients with metabolic syndrome (n = 99) received one of four isocaloric diets: (A) High-fat (38% energy) SFA-rich diet (HSFA); (B) High-fat (38% energy), MUFA-rich diet (HMUFA); (C), low-fat (LF) (28% energy), high-complex carbohydrate diet with 1.24 g/d oleic sunflower oil (LFHCC) and (D): low-fat (28% energy), high-complex carbohydrate diet, with 1.24 g/d LC n-3 PUFA (LFHCC n-3) for 12 weeks. Analysis of plasma lipid profile and LDL phenotype was done pre- and post-interventions. Results: Post-dietary change of LDL density was a main effect observed in all groups. LFHCC n-3 and HFMUFA diets resulted in favorable alteration of LDL phenotype from B to A and decreased LDL density. In contrast, increased LDL density was observed in HSFA and LFHCC groups. The plasma pre-n3/n6 PUFA, Apo E change and pre-Apo CIII/CII ratios explained in 65% the post-dietary change of LDL density in diet LFHCC n-3 consumers. Conclusions: Study demonstrates efficacy of dietary n-3 PUFA to modify pro-atherogenic to less atherogenic LDL phenotype in patients with metabolic syndrome. Study identifier at ClinicalTrials.gov was NCT00429195.