Effect of Administration of Gamma-Linolenic Acid
on the Fatty Acid Composition of Serum Phospholipids
and Cholesteryl Esters in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:    Frankp@chiro.org

Ann Nutr Metab 1994;   38:   40-47

---

This study examined the effects of supplementing patients with cystic fibrosis daily for 4 weeks with 1,500 mg borage oil containing 330 mg gamma-linolenic acid on the fatty acid composition of serum phospholipids (PL) and cholesteryl esters (CE). Vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1s were also measured before and after treatment. In serum PL the content of arachidonic acid (AA) increased and that of palmitic acid decreased significantly after borage oil administration. In serum CE dihomogamma-linolenic acid increased whereas docosahexaenoic acid decreased significantly. In this lipid class AA and the sum of AA plus its precursor dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid increased significantly with the dose fed. A positive correlation was found between change in vital capacity and change in linoleic acid content of serum CE and AA content of serum PL.

Return to the GAMMA-LINOLENIC ACID Page

Since 5-01-1998