Omega-3 fatty acids are essential in human health, influencing multiple organ systems and physiological responses. However, a person’s omega-3 status varies depending on several factors, including their genetic makeup. A new study shows that genetic differences influence how Hispanic Americans metabolize omega-3s.
Researchers conducted a genome-wide association study, a type of observational study that searches the genome for minor variations in people’s DNA within a particular population. Their analysis included more than 1,400 Hispanic Americans and more than 2,200 African Americans.
They found that the two groups shared many genetic similarities regarding omega-3 metabolism with European Americans. However, they also identified distinct differences, some influencing how Hispanic Americans metabolize omega-3s. Most of these differences occurred in the FADS region on chromosome 11. FADS (fatty acid desaturase) is a gene that encodes a family of enzymes that convert saturated fatty acids into unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
These findings provide a better understanding of the genetics underlying omega-3 fatty acid metabolism in diverse genetic groups and underscore the importance of considering ancestry in genetic studies. Learn more about how genetic differences influence nutritional status in this episode featuring Dr. Rhonda Patrick.