The objective of this study was to evaluate the incorporation of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) on male Swiss mice
livers receiving diets based on linseed oil (LO) for up to 56 days. The mice were sacrificed at 7, 14, 28, 42, 56 days
and FA concentration was analyzed by gas chromatography. A total of 13 FA were identified on LO feeds
presenting alpha-linolenic acid (LNA) contents of 26.97 %. A total 22 FA were identified in the livers of the mice.
Part of the LNA was converted into n-3 FA (20:3n-3, eicosapentaenoic acid-EPA, 22:5n-3, and docosahexaenoic
acid- DHA), and some of the LNA was stored in the liver. LNA, EPA and DHA concentrations (mg/g total lipids )
from 0 days for up 56 days increased from 1.29 to 18.90 (LNA), 0.20 to 18.90 (EPA) and 41.26 to 99.17 (DHA).The
concentration of n-3 FA in the livers varied with the duration of the LO diet. During LO feed, n-6 FA concentration
fell and n-3 FA concentration rose through the experimental period.
