Trans-fatty acids and sudden cardiac death

Atheroscler Suppl. 2006 May;7(2):13-5. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosissup.2006.04.003. Epub 2006 May 18.

Abstract

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is usually due to ventricular fibrillation and can occur as a first manifestation of heart disease. Prevention of ventricular fibrillation and SCD with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids is well documented. Trans-fatty acids (TFA) in the diet and cell membranes might affect the risk of SCD as well. We review evidence from an observational study that high levels of trans-18:2 (9 cis-, 12 trans- and 9 trans-, 12 cis-isomers of linoleic acid) in red blood cell membranes are associated with markedly higher risk of SCD. In contrast, cell membrane levels of trans-18:1 (trans-isomers of oleic acid), the major TFA in foods, do not appear associated with higher risk of SCD. While further studies are needed to investigate possible effects of trans-18:2 on arrhythmia, it would be prudent to limit dietary intake of trans-18:2.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac* / epidemiology
  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac* / etiology
  • Dietary Fats / administration & dosage
  • Dietary Fats / adverse effects
  • Dietary Fats / metabolism*
  • Erythrocyte Membrane / metabolism*
  • Oleic Acid / metabolism
  • Risk Factors
  • Trans Fatty Acids / administration & dosage
  • Trans Fatty Acids / adverse effects
  • Trans Fatty Acids / metabolism*
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / complications
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / epidemiology
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / metabolism*
  • alpha-Linolenic Acid / metabolism

Substances

  • Dietary Fats
  • Trans Fatty Acids
  • alpha-Linolenic Acid
  • Oleic Acid