Immunomodulatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids: a possible explanation for their systemic, anti-carcinogenic effects

Abstract

The recent article by Zapata-Gonzalez et al. [1] was highly interesting. The authors have clearly demonstrated the immunomodulatory effects of docosahexaenoic acid on dendritic cells. Data from recent clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids exhibit potent, anti-carcinogenic properties. I personally believe that immunomodulation has a major role to play in these systemic, anti-carcinogenic effects exhibited by omega-3 fatty acids. The findings of Zapata-Gonzalez et al. [1] may very well explain these anti-tumerogenic effects of omega-3 fatty acids in various systemic tissues. For instance, Hall et al. [2] have shown that omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk for colorectal cancer. Similarly, a dietary increase in omega-3 fatty acids, resulting in increased tissue levels of eicosapentaenoic acid, results in an accentuated response to hormone ablation therapy in prostate cancer cells [3]. In fact, Mina [4] has shown that consumption of preserved fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may prevent the evolution and development of prostate carcinomas. Similarly, eicosapentaenoic acid attenuates proliferation in pancreatic tissue by altering angiogenesis by decreasing the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) [5]. In fact, omega fatty acids are even effective in inducing apoptosis in chemo-resistant pancreatic carcinomatous tissue [6]. Omega-3 fatty acids also inhibit growth in choloangiocarcinoma cells by accentuated expression of the natural COX2 antagonist, 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase [7].