Immunomodulatory Effects of Omega‐3 Fatty Acids: Mechanistic Insights and Health Implications
Abstract
ABSTRACT Omega‐3 fatty acids play a significant role in immunomodulation, with nutrigenomic approaches highlighting their impact on gene expression related to immune responses. Research indicates that omega‐3 fatty acids can modulate inflammatory pathways, potentially reducing chronic inflammation and enhancing immune function. This review discusses the intersection of nutrigenomics and nutriepigenomics, focusing on how omega‐3 fatty acids influence gene expression, immune function, and overall health. The immune system is a complex network responsible for defending the body against pathogens and maintaining internal balance. Comprised of innate and adaptive immunity, the system involves various cells, tissues, and organs working together to combat infections and prevent diseases. Omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a significant role in modulating the immune system. These fatty acids influence immune cell function, membrane fluidity, and signaling processes, enhancing immune responses and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, EPA and DHA affect several signaling pathways, reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibiting nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) activation, a critical transcription factor in the inflammatory response. Additionally, they activate PPAR‐γ, further diminishing inflammatory gene expression. As precursors to…
Read the paper
Related studies
- Promising Sources of Plant-Derived Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: A Narrative Review
- Effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake in patients with chronic kidney disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
- Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cognition: an updated systematic review of randomized clinical trials
- The role of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A narrative review
- Paucity of evidence for a relationship between long-chain omega-3 fatty acid intake and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review
- Omega-3 fatty acid nanocarriers: Characterization and potential applications
Go deeper in Evidence Hub
Evidence Hub adds a study data sheet (design, sample size, evidence level, key numbers), an AI summary and a chat grounded in the paper's text.