Sn-2-monoacylglycerols and lipid malabsorption
The present invention relates generally to the field of lipids and in particular aims at improving lipid absorption, for example under conditions of lipid maldigestion or malabsorption. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a composition comprising a sn-2 monoacylglycerol derivative, wherein the sn-1 and sn-3 positions are blocked by protective groups. The acyl group may be a fatty acid, for example one with anti-inflammatory properties.
1. A method for delivering fatty acids to an individual having lipid maldigestion or malabsorption condition, the method comprising:
administering a composition comprising an sn-2 monoacylglycerol, wherein the sn-1 and sn-3 positions are blocked by protective groups and the acyl group is a fatty acid having anti-inflammatory properties selected from the group consisting of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), α-linolenic acid (ALA), stearidonic acid (SA), γ-linolenic acid (GLA), dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA), n-3 docosapentanenoic acid (DPA), sciadonic acid and juniperonic acid, to an individual in need of same.
2. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the maldigestion or malabsorption condition is due to pancreatic insufficiency, bile salt deficiency and/or a short gut.
3. The method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the protective groups are selected from the group consisting of acetyl groups, ethyl groups, propyl groups, vanillin, and other molecules able to form acetals.
4. A method for the treatment of lipid maldigestion or malabsorption conditions selected from the group consisting of pancreatic insufficiency, bile salt deficiency, and/or a short gut, the method comprising:
administering a composition comprising a sn-2 monoacylglycerol, wherein the sn-1 and sn-3 positions are blocked by protective groups and the acyl group is a fatty acid having anti-inflammatory properties selected from the group consisting of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), α-linolenic acid (ALA), stearidonic acid (SA), γ-linolenic acid (GLA), dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA), n-3 docosapentanenoic acid (DPA), sciadonic acid and juniperonic acid, to an individual in need of same.
5. The method in accordance with claim 4 wherein the individual is a pre-term infant.