Effects of omega-3 administration on homocysteine serum concentration in renal transplant recipient

Background: It has been shown that serum total homocysteine (HC) is a risk factor for vascular disease which characterizes endothelial damage in the general and in the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) population as well. Whether n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids decrease homocysteine (Hcy) level has been a subject of controversy. Methods: Renal transplant patients were randomized in 2 groups and received 6 months of dietary supplementation with 6 g/day of Fish oil or placebo. Homocysteine level and total cholesterol level were measured. Results: In 40 renal transplant recipients, increase in homocysteine level was greater after Fish oil administration but not significantly, total cholesterol was decreased significantly. Conclusion: Based on these data omega3 fatty acids supplementation doesn't decrease serum homocysteine in renal transplant recipients but decreases total cholesterol level. Keywords: Homocysteine, Renal Transplantation, Fish oils