Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Inflammatory Processes

Calder PC • Biochem Soc Trans

Key Finding

EPA and DHA reduce inflammation through multiple mechanisms including resolvin synthesis.

Original title: “Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man”

Plain English Summary

Comprehensive review of EPA and DHA effects on inflammation at molecular, cellular, and whole-body levels. Explains specialized pro-resolving mediator production.

In-Depth Analysis

Background

Professor Philip C. Calder from the University of Southampton is one of the world's leading researchers on omega-3 fatty acids and inflammation. This 2017 review in Biochemical Society Transactions (PMID: 28900017) provides a comprehensive update on EPA and DHA mechanisms.

Study Design

Narrative review synthesizing evidence from molecular biology, cell culture studies, animal models, and human clinical trials examining how omega-3 fatty acids modulate inflammatory processes.

Key Findings

Molecular mechanisms of EPA/DHA:

•Compete with arachidonic acid in cell membranes
•Reduce pro-inflammatory eicosanoid synthesis (PGE2, LTB4)
•Generate specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs): resolvins, protectins, maresins
•Modulate NF-κB and PPAR-γ signaling
•Reduce inflammatory gene expression

Mediator Class	Precursor	Function
E-series resolvins	EPA	Resolve inflammation
D-series resolvins	DHA	Anti-inflammatory
Protectins	DHA	Neuroprotection
Maresins	DHA	Tissue repair

Mechanistic Insights

The discovery of SPMs revolutionized understanding: inflammation resolution is an active process, not passive decay. EPA and DHA provide precursors for these resolution mediators, explaining why deficiency leads to chronic, unresolved inflammation.

Clinical Implications

Supports omega-3 supplementation for inflammatory conditions including cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and metabolic syndrome. Effect size depends on baseline omega-3 status and dose.

Metabolic Health Perspective

Chronic low-grade inflammation drives metabolic dysfunction. Optimal omega-3 status (Omega-3 Index ≥8%) supports inflammatory resolution and insulin sensitivity.