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A new research study has highlighted the potential of an experimental lipid emulsion called Vegaven, derived from Ahiflower oil, to transform neonatal parenteral nutrition (PN). The study compared Vegaven with the fish oil-containing SMOFlipid, finding that while brain DHA levels remained similar between the two groups, piglets receiving the plant-based Vegaven exhibited significantly higher metabolic activity and stronger growth signaling.
These findings contribute to the expanding body of research regarding the role of shorter-chain plant omega-3s in parenteral nutrition, particularly for premature and critically ill infants during vital windows of brain development. Traditionally, research in this field has focused primarily on whether lipid emulsions deliver sufficient docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) to the developing brain.
Dr. Michael Zaugg and Dr. Eliana Lucchinetti from the University of Alberta looked beyond mere fatty acid concentrations. Their investigation examined inflammation, energy production, and the biological processes fundamental to brain growth. Vegaven utilizes alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and stearidonic acid (SDA) from Ahiflower oil, which the body can synthesize into longer-chain omega-3s like EPA and DHA. In contrast, SMOFlipid provides these longer-chain fatty acids directly through fish oil.
In the study, newborn female piglets were administered PN for 14 days. The Vegaven group demonstrated lower markers of brain inflammation and enhanced metabolic activity. Researchers also noted more robust growth-related signaling, whereas the SMOFlipid group showed increased signs of energy stress. Dr. Zaugg told NutraIngredients that using shorter-chain 18-carbon n-3 fatty acids from plant sources reduces neonatal brain inflammation, subsequently boosting metabolism and growth compared to standard 20/22-carbon fatty acids found in fish oil.
Dr. Richard Bazinet, a professor at the University of Toronto, observed that the identical DHA levels between the groups were particularly noteworthy, suggesting that shorter-chain omega-3s effectively support brain DHA levels even in PN settings. While Vegaven has shown cross-organ benefits in brain, liver, and immune system health across multiple animal models, the researchers cautioned that clinical evidence in humans is still required. The formulation is currently transitioning from late preclinical development to early clinical research stages.
Source: Current Developments in Nutrition