Docosapentaenoic acid
Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that sits between EPA and DHA in the body's metabolism. It occurs in fatty fish and fish oil.
Also listed as DPA, Clupanodonic acid, DPA (Docosapentaenoic acid)
What has been measured in people?
A crossover study in ten women tested 8 g of purified DPA over seven days. DPA, EPA and DHA increased in certain blood lipid fractions. This showed metabolic processing, not prevention of disease. 1
Why are researchers interested in inflammation?
A later analysis found changes in fat-derived signaling molecules after seven days of DPA, including molecules involved in resolving inflammation. This provides a plausible research direction, not proof of relief from inflammatory disease. 2
Can findings for EPA and DHA be applied to DPA?
EFSA’s 2010 opinion established a relationship between EPA plus DHA and normal heart function, with about 250 mg daily required for that effect. That conclusion and quantity concern EPA and DHA; they do not establish an equivalent benefit or intake for isolated DPA. 3
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Hair & Skin1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Organ Function1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Bone & Joint1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Immune Support1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Longevity1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cardiovascular1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cognition1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Other effects1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.