Metabolic health
Docosapentaenoic acid, omega-3 (DPA n-3)
n-3 DPA, C22:5n-3
Included in Complete.
Compare membershipsThe lesser-known omega-3 between EPA and DHA.
DPA n-3 is a long-chain omega-3 fat, part of a family of fats your body can't make from scratch. It sits between EPA and DHA in the omega-3 pathway, comes from fish and seafood, and is also made in your body from EPA.
DPA often gets left out of omega-3 conversations.
Most omega-3 research and product labels focus on EPA and DHA. DPA is present in smaller amounts, but it's the most plentiful long-chain omega-3 in the brain after DHA.
Studies suggest the body can convert DPA back into EPA and, to a lesser degree, into DHA. In one study of healthy adults, red blood cell DPA rose with omega-3 supplements, and higher DPA went along with lower triglycerides. Research on its specific effects is still developing.
Questions
Why measure DPA if I already know my EPA and DHA?
DPA adds detail to your omega-3 picture, since it's made from EPA and can be converted back. It usually moves with your EPA and DHA, so it's best read with those results and your total omega-3s.
Is there a target level for DPA n-3?
No. Experts haven't set a target for DPA on its own, and most guidance on omega-3 intake focuses on EPA and DHA.
Sources and references
- Drouin et al., The n-3 docosapentaenoic acid (DPA): a new player in the n-3 long-chain PUFA family (Biochimie, 2019)
- Skulas-Ray et al., Red blood cell DPA n-3 is inversely associated with triglycerides and CRP in healthy adults and rises with n-3 supplementation (Nutrients, 2015)
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Omega-3 Fatty Acids fact sheet for health professionals