The effects of n-3 fatty-acid supplementation on serum lipids, platelet aggre gation, and the development of atherosclerotic lesions were studied in the choles terol-fed rabbit. Serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol values were significantly reduced in comparison with those of the nonsupplemented choles terol-fed group (p<0.005, p<0.0025, respectively), though still higher than those of the control group (p<0.0025, p<0.0125 respectively). Platelet aggregation was reduced below that of the cholesterol-fed and the control levels (p<0.0005, p<0.0025, respectively). The endothelial injury encountered in cholesterol-fed rabbits was inhibited in the supplemented group. It is concluded that n-3 fatty acids suppress atherogenesis in this animal model by interfering with platelet aggregation and lipid metabolism.
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