[An essential polyunsaturated, 20-carbon omega-3 fatty acid, with anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering and potential antineoplastic activities. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and its metabolites act in accord with the metabolites of arachidonic acid, by which attribute to its anti-inflammatory effect. EPA has also been shown to inhibit crypt foci growth and increase mucosal apoptosis in colon cancer patients through a yet unidentified mechanism. Furthermore, in animal models, anti-obesity and insulin-sensitizing effects were observed after EPA supplement via a unclear mechanism. ( NCI )]
UMLS (NCI) C0000545 - Lipid
- Pharmacologic Substance
- Biologically Active Substance