The study aimed to understand how omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and the compounds formed from them affect the cells in a horse's joints. These cells are synoviocytes, meaning the cells that form the inner surface of the joint. They also react sensitively to inflammation.
When cells receive DHA, they convert it onward into docosanoids. Docosanoids are natural substances that calm inflammation and promote healing. In other words, "inflammation-switching-off" substances are formed in the body from omega-3 fatty acids.
The study was conducted in the laboratory using equine synoviocytes. The researchers created a cell model from horse joints in the lab, put the cells into an "inflammatory state," and then examined whether omega-3 fatty acids and the substances formed from them would calm that inflammatory response.
What was observed?
- The cells took up EPA and DHA well.
- With DHA, the cells began producing docosanoids. Docosanoids are the body's natural inflammation-dampening and healing-supporting compounds. They are formed when a cell breaks down and modifies omega-3 fatty acids.
- Both EPA and DHA reduced the amount of inflammation-maintaining markers in the cells. These include, among other things, enzymes that break down joint cartilage.
- Docosanoids alone also reduced inflammation effectively.
- Both omega-3 fatty acids and docosanoids reduce inflammation in joints and reduce the production of cartilage-degrading enzymes. This may help keep horses' joints healthier.
In plain language: omega-3 fatty acids and the substances formed from them helped the cells "calm down," and the cells did not produce as many inflammation-driving factors.
The study provides indications that omega-3 fatty acids may support equine joint wellbeing and reduce inflammation. This may be useful, for example, in the prevention and management of osteoarthritis.
