DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) (docosapentaenoic acid)
Synopsis of DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)
DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) is a lesser-known omega-3 fatty acid that serves as an intermediary between EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in the long-chain omega-3 metabolic pathway. Structurally, DPA is a 22-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acid with five double bonds, and is sometimes referred to as omega-3 DPA to distinguish it from omega-6 DPA (docosapentaenoic acid n-6), which has different biological effects.
DPA is found in:
- Cold-water fatty fish such as salmon, herring, and mackerel
- Seal and whale blubber (traditional sources for Inuit populations)
- Small amounts in human breast milk and tissues
- Some algae- or fish-derived omega-3 supplements, particularly those labeled as “full-spectrum”
Though not as widely studied as EPA or DHA, DPA has its own distinct and valuable properties:
- Supports cardiovascular health by reducing triglycerides, improving endothelial function, and reducing platelet aggregation
- Enhances the body’s anti-inflammatory capacity, often acting synergistically with EPA and DHA
- Functions as a lipid mediator precursor, involved in producing resolvins and protectins, compounds that help resolve inflammation
- Appears to help repair damaged blood vessels and may inhibit the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques
- May play a role in brain health and development, though more research is needed compared to DHA
Some research suggests that DPA may reconvert into EPA or DHA as needed, allowing it to serve as a reservoir for both major omega-3s, making it a flexible and multifunctional component of omega-3 supplementation.
Historical Use
DPA, as an isolated nutrient, has no direct traditional or herbal use, as it was only identified and studied in the 20th century. However, the foods naturally high in DPA—especially marine fats—have been central to the diets and health of traditional populations for centuries.
In particular:
- Inuit and other Arctic Indigenous peoples, whose diets were rich in seal and whale fat, consumed significantly more DPA than typical Western populations. These communities had historically low rates of cardiovascular disease and chronic inflammation, likely due in part to their high intake of all three major omega-3s: EPA, DPA, and DHA.
- In traditional European diets, consumption of organ meats and fatty fish also provided DPA, although this was never identified or differentiated from other fats at the time.
Today, DPA is gaining attention in clinical nutrition and research for its unique role in cardiovascular repair, inflammation resolution, and omega-3 metabolism, particularly in advanced fish oil supplements and anti-inflammatory protocols. It is also being explored for neuroprotection, metabolic health, and exercise recovery.
DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Congestive Heart Failure (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Joints (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
