Plasma pentadecanoic acid is modestly related to cardiovascular health in CARDIA and ARIC cohorts: observational associations without evidence of causality.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) is an odd-chain saturated fatty acid that is being marketed as a heart-healthy supplement.

Objective

To test whether plasma C15:0 is related to cardiovascular outcomes including systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), functional cardiac measures, and development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Plasma phospholipid C15:0 levels were assessed by gas chromatography in 3,196 Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults participants (mean age 45 years; 57% female; 45% Black). Generalized linear models estimated associations of plasma C15:0 with SBP, DBP, and echocardiographic indices. Cox regression estimated risk of incident hypertension (SBP/DBP ≥ 140/90 mmHg or BP medication use) or CVD over

SUBMITTER: Steffen BT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12931280 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature