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Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation decreases matrix metalloproteinase-9 production in relapsing-remitting multiple

L Shinto1, G Marracci, S Baldauf-Wagner

  • 1Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, CR120 Portland, OR 97239, USA. shintol@ohsu.edu

Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids
|January 28, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3 FA) significantly reduced matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). This suggests omega-3 FA may be a beneficial immune-modulator for MS treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Nutritional Neuroscience

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
  • Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is implicated in MS pathogenesis and neuroinflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3 FA) on MMP-9 production by immune cells in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS).
  • To assess changes in quality of life, fatty acid levels, and safety associated with omega-3 FA supplementation.

Main Methods:

  • An open-label study involving 10 RRMS participants.
  • Supplementation with 9.6g/day of fish oil (omega-3 FA) for 3 months.
  • Evaluations conducted at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and after a 3-month washout period.

Main Results:

  • A significant 58% decrease in immune cell MMP-9 secretion after 3 months of omega-3 FA supplementation (p<0.01).
  • Concurrent significant increase in red blood cell membrane omega-3 FA levels.

Conclusions:

  • Omega-3 FA supplementation effectively reduced MMP-9 levels in RRMS patients.
  • Omega-3 FA demonstrates potential as an immune-modulating therapy for multiple sclerosis.

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