PEROXISOME PROLIFERATOR-ACTIVATED RECEPTORS (PPARS) IN NUTRITION AND DISEASE

Diets rich in n3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n3-PUFAs) such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are associated with decreased incidence and severity of several chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and certain cancers. The accomplishment of the objectives will result in several beneficial endpoints. First, we will have gained a firm base of scientific knowledge from which to judge the beneficial effects of dietary fatty acids including omega-3 PUFAs. Second, with the use of the scientific information gathered we may be able to develop diets, dietary supplements and drugs that will result in increased health benefits of humans and livestock within Pennsylvania. Last, with knowledge of the mechanism of action of omega-3 PUFAs, with the focus on human genetic variation in these pathways, we may be able to predict who would benefit from certain treatment and prevention strategies.