Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: moving towards precision use for prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nutritional Science
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Marine omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (O3FAs) possess documented anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
• Extensive research, including randomized controlled trials and cohort studies, has explored the link between O3FA intake and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current clinical data on the relationship between O3FA intake and CRC.
• To highlight the need for a precision-based strategy in utilizing O3FAs for CRC prevention and treatment.
• To explore the role of O3FAs in modulating the gut microbiota for potential anti-CRC mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Review of randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies on O3FA intake and CRC.
• Analysis of clinical data examining host and tumor factors influencing O3FA anti-CRC activity.
• Evaluation of recent findings on O3FA effects on gut microbiota.

Main Results:

• O3FAs exhibit differential anti-CRC activity influenced by host factors (e.g., blood O3FA levels, ethnicity, inflammation) and tumor characteristics (e.g., location, histology, molecular features).
• Emerging evidence suggests O3FAs may impact the gut microbiota, presenting a potential mechanism for CRC prevention and treatment.
• A personalized approach is suggested for optimizing O3FA use in CRC management.

Conclusions:

• The efficacy of O3FAs in CRC prevention and treatment is context-dependent, requiring consideration of individual host, tumor, and microbiota profiles.
• Further research into the interaction between O3FAs and the gut microbiota is warranted to elucidate anti-CRC mechanisms.
• A precision medicine strategy, informed by mechanistic understanding, is crucial for maximizing the benefits of O3FAs in combating colorectal cancer.