[Benefits of ω-3 fatty acids in Duchenne muscular dystrophy]

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, is the most common congenital muscular dystrophy and is characterized by a chronic inflammatory response mediated by immune cells and cytokines. Obesity, a common feature of DMD, exacerbates this inflammation. Although corticosteroids are the conventional treatment, their adverse effects are substantial. The use of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAω-3) as adjuvant therapy is under investigation. A comprehensive review of studies from 2011 to May 2024 reveals that supplementation with PUFAω-3 has beneficial effects in mdx mice, a model of DMD. These include reduction of the inflammatory process in both muscle and circulation, in addition to decreased myonecrosis, resulting in improved muscle strength and endurance. Supplementation also had a positive impact on cardiac tissue, reducing fibrosis and inflammation present in this tissue. These results were corroborated in patients with DMD. A significant decrease in inflammatory markers such as NF-kB, IL-1β and IL-6 was observed with PUFAω-3, and an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory effect. These findings support the use of PUFAω-3 as adjuvant therapy in DMD, although further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and clinical benefits.