The multi-center randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study used Martek DHA produced from microalgae or a matching placebo administered over a period of 26 weeks. Subjects were randomly assigned to take 200mg of DHA per day, 1g of DHA per day, or the placebo. Lipid profiles and other markers of cardiovascular risk were measured at baseline and after 13 and 26 weeks of supplementation.
The study found that after 13 weeks, the group assigned to take 1g of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) per day demonstrated significantly lower triglyceride levels than the placebo group. However, when tested again at 26 weeks, the same group had significantly lower triglyceride levels as compared to baseline, but the reduction was not statistically significant as compared to the placebo group, which was the study’s primary endpoint.
Study results also showed slight increases in HDL and modest increases in large LDL cholesterol, no effect on blood pressure, and a modest decrease in resting heart rate. These effects were not statistically significant at all time points.
However, study data did show a statistically significant reduction of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the combined 200mg and 1g DHA dosage groups when compared to placebo at 26 weeks. Emerging research suggests that high levels of CRP are associated with vascular inflammation and elevated risk of cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, the observed lipid profile effects suggest that Martek DHA has cardiovascular attributes comparable to fish oil, supporting its use in dietary supplements and food applications for cardiovascular health.
In a separate announcement, Martek said it has received a favorable decision from the Appeal Board of the European Patent Office (EPO) relating to one of its European DHA patents, covering primarily production processes and human and animal food uses.