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The omega-3 and retinopathy of prematurity relationship
Angelakis Malamas1, Angeliki Chranioti2, Christos Tsakalidis3
1Royal Victoria Infirmary, Eye Department, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK.
Insights
Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) show promise in preventing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Their intake supports retinal health through anti-angiogenic and neuroprotective effects, benefiting premature infants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of vision impairment in premature infants.
- The pathogenesis of ROP involves complex mechanisms including ischemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
- Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) play crucial roles in retinal development and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental and clinical evidence on the effects of omega-3 (ω-3) LCPUFAs intake on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which ω-3 LCPUFAs may influence ROP development.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of experimental and clinical trials.
- Analysis of studies involving animal models and human infants.
- Examination of LCPUFA's impact on retinal cellular processes.
Main Results:
- LCPUFAs exhibit cytoprotective and cytotherapeutic actions in the retina.
- ω-3 LCPUFAs demonstrate anti-angiogenic and neuroprotective properties.
- Intake of ω-3 LCPUFAs appears beneficial in mitigating ischemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation relevant to ROP.
Conclusions:
- ω-3 LCPUFAs show potential therapeutic benefits for ROP.
- These fatty acids may modulate key metabolic pathways involved in ROP pathogenesis.
- Further research into ω-3 LCPUFA supplementation for ROP prevention and treatment is warranted.
Abstract:
The aim of this article is to examine the effect of omega-3 (ω-3) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) intake on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) by reviewing the experimental and clinical trials conducted on animal models and infants. LCPUFAs demonstrate cytoprotective and cytotherapeutic actions contributing to a number of anti-angiogenic and neuroprotective mechanisms within the retina. Their intake appears to have a beneficial effect on ischemia, oxidative stress, inflammation and cellular signaling mechanisms, influencing retinal cell gene expression and cellular differentiation. ω-3 LCPUFAs may modulate metabolic processes that activate molecules implicated in the pathogenesis of vasoproliferative and neurodegenerative retinal diseases such as ROP.
