Final answer:
Decreasing production of EPA would not help decrease inflammation since EPA is an omega-3 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory effects. In contrast, inhibiting PLA-2 and COX enzymes or increasing omega-3 intake would help reduce inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asks which option would not help to decrease inflammation. The correct answer is d) Decreasing production of EPA by enzymes. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory effects. Inhibiting the production of EPA would not be beneficial in reducing inflammation; in fact, it could lead to increased inflammation.
To further clarify, inhibiting PLA-2 enzyme activity would help decrease inflammation because PLA-2 is involved in the release of arachidonic acid, which is then converted into pro-inflammatory eicosanoids. Inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes also decreases inflammation, as these enzymes are key in the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid. NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, work by inhibiting these enzymes. Increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake is known to reduce inflammation, hence this would be a beneficial approach.