Clinical Study Shows Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements for Alzheimer’s-Prone Genes

OHSU Clinical Trial on Fish Oil and Alzheimer’s

A clinical trial conducted by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has shown that fish oil supplements may provide significant benefits to older adults who carry a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease. The study, published in the JAMA Network Open journal, comes amidst claims that fish oil supplements can improve brain function in those with memory problems.

Genetic Factors and Efficacy of Fish Oil

The study's senior co-author, Lynne Shinto, indicated that fish oil could be beneficial for individuals carrying the APOE4 gene, associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s. However, the study found no statistically significant benefits for all older adults. The trial involved 102 participants aged 75 or older, with low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil), and relatively high levels of white matter lesions in the brain.

The Study’s Methodology

Participants underwent MRI scans of their brains at the start and end of the three-year study to measure changes in white matter lesions, which may impede nutrient delivery to the brain and increase dementia risk. Half of the participants took omega-3-rich fish oil supplements daily, while the other half took a soybean-based placebo.

Results and Implications of the Study

The study found a slight reduction in the progression of white matter lesions among all participants, but not enough to be statistically significant. However, for participants carrying the APOE4 gene, there was a marked reduction in brain cell breakdown after a year of fish oil treatment compared to the placebo group.

Future Implications

The findings suggest the need for larger clinical trials in diverse populations in the future, especially considering the potential of fish oil supplements for those with a high risk of Alzheimer’s. The study marks the first dementia prevention trial to use modern tools like blood tests and brain scans to identify individuals well-suited for a specific nutritional intervention.

Original URL: https://scitechdaily.com/new-research-reveals-that-fish-oil-could-help-prevent-alzheimers-in-certain-high-risk-individuals/