n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and immune function.
n-3 PUFA have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. However, they have also been shown to suppress T-cell-mediated immune function, an undesirable effect, especially in immuno-suppressed individuals. Studies have thus far suggested that this immuno-suppression may be in part attributable to increased lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant (especially vitamin E) levels, which can be prevented by appropriate vitamin E supplementation. Further well-designed human studies are needed to determine the appropriate levels of n-3 PUFA and vitamin E supplementation to optimize the beneficial anti-inflammatory effect of n-3 PUFA and minimize their suppressive effect on T-cell function.
Wu
D
D
Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
Meydani
S N
SN
D000818:Animals; D016207:Cytokines / Q000096:biosynthesis; D004042:Dietary Fats, Unsaturated / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D015777:Eicosanoids / Q000378:metabolism; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D005395:Fish Oils / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D007109:Immunity; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D010938:Plant Oils / Q000008:administration & dosage
D016207:Cytokines; D004042:Dietary Fats, Unsaturated; D015777:Eicosanoids; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3; D005395:Fish Oils; D010938:Plant Oils