N-3 fatty acid supplementation in asthma management: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Laboratory and epidemiological evidence suggests that n−3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are beneficial in asthma prevention and possibly treatment through their anti- inflammatory effect.1 The mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory actions of n−3 fatty acids include activation of transcription factor peroxisome proliferator- activated receptor γ, binding to the G protein- coupled receptor, altered cell membrane phospholipid composition, inhibition of activation of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B, and inflammation resolving mediators called resolvins, protectins, and maresins.2 However, evidence from randomized controlled trials remains inconsistent. 3 Therefore, we aimed to examine the summarized effect of n−3 fatty acids on asthma control and management.