Omega 3 supplementation to reduce alpha threonine kinase 1 (AKT1) levels in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in the induction phase of chemotherapy

Abstract

Background: Omega-3 inhibits tumor growth and progression in various cancers, but the mechanisms involved remain unclear. Omega-3 induces apoptosis, promotes cell cycle arrest, and reduces inflammation through various mechanisms, including reduced AKT phosphorylation. AKT is involved in cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is one of the most prevalent malignancies in children with low remission levels. PI3K/AKT pathway mutations are found in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Omega-3 is known to inhibit leukemogenesis through AKT1 signaling pathways. Objectives: To analyze omega-3’s role in AKT1 level reduction in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Methods: A randomized open label pre- and post-test control group study was conducted on two groups: a treatment group receiving 1,000 mg of omega-3 orally once a day during the chemotherapy protocol’s induction phase; and a control group receiving placebos. AKT1 levels were measured before (day 0) and after the induction phase of chemotherapy was completed (day 43). The statistical analysis included paired t-tests, independent sample t-tests, and chi-square tests. Results: Twenty-six subjects included in this study were divided into 13 subjects in the control group and 13 subjects in the treatment group. There was a significant reduction in AKT levels before and after receiving omega-3 supplementation in the treatment group (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, there was a significant increase in the control group’s AKT1 levels (p< 0.001). Conclusion: Omega-3 supplementation suppressed AKT1 levels.