The effect of omega-3 fatty acids on biomarkers of inflammation: a rapid evidence assessment of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Previous studies of omega-3 fatty acids report improved outcomes where inflammation is a key factor. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate effects of omega-3s on inflammatory biomarkers.


METHODS
Randomized clinical studies that measured the influence of omega-3 fatty acids on inflammatory biomarkers were identified using a comprehensive search. Eligible studies were rated with the American Dietetic Association Evidence Analysis Manual and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) process to examine study quality and risk/benefit.


RESULTS
112 studies were included. Over 65% reported statistically significant effects. The majority were scored as low risk of bias (high quality) and scored strong (cardiac populations and critically ill) to weak (Alzheimer's Disease, hypertriglyceridemia/diabetes, and obesity) on the risk/benefit ratio evidence for modulation of inflammatory biomarkers. There was inadequate data to determine a GRADE for inflammatory biomarker studies for some conditions (healthy individuals, rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic syndrome, renal disease, pregnancy, or children).


CONCLUSIONS
Clinical literature on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on inflammatory biomarkers contains mostly small sample sizes, is neutral to high quality, and report mixed effects. Larger studies examining dose and delivery are needed.
Samueli Institute, 2101 East Coast Highway, Suite 300, Corona del Mar, CA 92625.
Raheleh
R
Khorsan
Samueli Institute, 1737 King Street, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Cindy
C
Crawford
Samueli Institute, 1737 King Street, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314.
John A
JA
Ives
Samueli Institute, 1737 King Street, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Avi R
AR
Walter
Samueli Institute, 1737 King Street, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Wayne B
WB
Jonas
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000032:analysis; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D016207:Cytokines / Q000187:drug effects*; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D018836:Inflammation Mediators / Q000032:analysis*
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D015415:Biomarkers; D016207:Cytokines; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3; D018836:Inflammation Mediators