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Association between systemic omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels, and corneal nerve structure and function
Alexis Ceecee Britten-Jones1, Jennifer P Craig2, Andrew J Anderson1
1Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.
Eye (London, England)
|September 27, 2022
Summary
Higher omega-3 fatty acid levels, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are linked to improved corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL). This suggests omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may positively impact corneal nerve structure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), possess anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
- Systemic omega-3 fatty acid levels are investigated for their potential relationship with corneal parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the association between systemic omega-3 fatty acid levels and corneal anatomical parameters.
- To explore the influence of omega-3 PUFAs on corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL) and corneal sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Forty-seven participants with and without diabetes underwent ocular surface and systemic PUFA assessments.
- Corneal anatomy was evaluated using in vivo confocal microscopy, and sensitivity was measured via non-contact esthesiometry.
- Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to assess relationships between PUFA levels and corneal parameters, adjusting for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- A higher Omega-3 Index (indicating greater EPA and DHA levels) was independently associated with increased CNFL, with age and diabetes also influencing CNFL.
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels, but not EPA or omega-6 fatty acids, showed a positive association with CNFL.
- No correlation was found between PUFA levels and corneal sensitivity or immune cell density. A negative correlation between CNFL and corneal sensation thresholds was observed in participants with diabetes.
Conclusions:
- A positive relationship exists between the systemic Omega-3 Index and corneal nerve parameters.
- Omega-3 PUFA intake may play a role in influencing corneal nerve architecture.
