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Updated: Jan 13, 2026

Author Spotlight: Unveiling Mitochondrial Function and Cellular Metabolic Adaptation in Metabolic Diseases
Published on: October 4, 2024
Skeletal muscle protein turnover and mitochondrial responses to omega-3 fatty acid supplementation: an update
Jack E Hayden1, Colleen S Deane1,2
1Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton.
Purpose Of Review:
To critically review recent findings related to the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on skeletal muscle, with a particular focus on skeletal muscle protein turnover and mitochondrial function.
Recent Findings:
Evidence indicates that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may support skeletal muscle health by influencing muscle protein synthesis (MPS), mitochondrial function, and redox balance. However, recent meta-analyses reveal inconsistent effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on basal and stimulus-induced MPS, likely due to methodological variability. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is seemingly more beneficial in clinical cohorts and preclinical data suggests omega-3s may reduce oxidative stress.
Summary:
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is a promising nutritional strategy for supporting skeletal muscle health, via the modulation of MPS and mitochondrial function. However, large-scale trials in a variety of healthy and clinical populations using sustainable sources of omega-3 fatty acids are required before a consensus on efficacy can be made.
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