Optimization of concentrations of different n-3PUFAs on antioxidant capacity in mouse hepatocytes

Abstract

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), mainly including α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), possess antioxidant properties and play a crucial role in growth and development. However, the combined effects of ALA, EPA, and DHA at different concentrations have rarely been reported. This work explored the effects of EPA, ALA, and DHA on the viability and antioxidant capacity of mouse hepatocytes, with the objective of enhancing the antioxidant capacity. Within the appropriate concentration range, cell viability and the activity of glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were increased, while the oxidation products of malondialdehyde and the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species were obviously reduced. Thus, oxidative stress was relieved, and cellular antioxidant levels were improved. Finally, response surface optimization was carried out for EPA, ALA, and DHA, and the model was established. The antioxidant capacity of the cells was highest at EPA, ALA, and DHA concentrations of 145.46, 405.05, and 551.52 µM, respectively. These findings lay the foundation for further exploration of the interactive mechanisms of n-3 PUFAs in the body, as well as their applications in nutraceutical food.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12944-024-02202-0.