Cell membrane omega-3 status
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About Omega-3 Index
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About Omega-3 Index
Overview and History
The Omega-3 Index quantifies two long-chain omega‑3 fatty acids—eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—as a percentage of total fatty acids in erythrocyte (red blood cell) membranes. It is a biochemical biomarker of membrane fatty‑acid composition rather than a single, short-term dietary measure.
The Index was popularized in cardiovascular research in the early 2000s as a stable, longer‑term measure of tissue omega‑3 status. Biologically, EPA and DHA integrate into cell membranes, affect membrane fluidity and receptor function, and serve as precursors for signaling molecules that influence inflammation, platelet behavior, and endothelial signaling pathways.
Interpreting Highs and Lows
Lower Omega‑3 Index values (commonly cited in literature as below about 4%) may indicate relatively low EPA+DHA incorporation into cell membranes. Observational studies have linked lower values with higher inflammatory marker patterns and less favorable cardiovascular biomarker profiles, but interpretation depends on the broader clinical picture. Higher values (often cited above about 8%) reflect greater EPA+DHA incorporation and are generally associated with an anti-inflammatory signaling profile and different platelet/clotting characteristics in some studies. These thresholds are used descriptively; results should be interpreted together with the Cardio Zoomer panel and clinical context.
Featured Test
Cardio Zoomer includes the Omega‑3 Index to map membrane fatty‑acid balance alongside lipids, inflammation, endothelial function, and genetics. It provides a longer‑term view of omega‑3 exposure that can help explain patterns seen in inflammatory markers, lipid behavior, and vascular signaling, contributing to a more personalized assessment of cardiovascular biology.
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Mary Beth Augustine
DCN, RDN, FAND- Lead Clinical Educator
Suzanne Barker
MS, RDN, LD, CTTS, CGP- Clinical Educator
Suzette Garcia
MSc- MHNE- Clinical Educator
Brooke Mader Ganev
MS, CNS, LDN, FDN- Clinical Educator
Adair Anderson
MS, RDN, LDN- Clinical Educator
Lillie Luu Nguyen
DCN, CNS, LDN- Clinical Educator
Jason Barker
ND- Clinical Educator
Emaline Brown
ND- Clinical Educator
Dana Filatova
DCN, CNS, LDN- Clinical Educator
Jessy Dhanjal
ND- Clinical Educator
Nour Amri
MS, LDN, CNS, CKNS- Clinical Educator
