Cited by 19Fatty Acid Research and HealthClinical Nutrition and GastroenterologyRespiratory Support and Mechanisms

The role of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the intensive care unit

Singer, Pierre, Calder, Philip C.·2023·Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review provides an update on the actions of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and presents the most recent findings from trials in patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting including relevant meta-analyses. Many specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are produced from bioactive omega-3 PUFAs and may explain many of the beneficial effects of omega-3 PUFAs, although other mechanisms of action of omega-3 PUFAs are being uncovered. Recent findings: SPMs resolve inflammation, promote healing and support antiinfection activities of the immune system. Since publication of the ESPEN guidelines, numerous studies further support the use of omega-3 PUFAs. Recent meta-analyses favor the inclusion of omega-3 PUFAs in nutrition support of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome or sepsis. Recent trials indicate that omega-3 PUFAs may protect against delirium and liver dysfunction in patients in the ICU, although effects on muscle loss are unclear and require further investigation. Critical illness may alter omega-3 PUFA turnover. There has been significant discussion about the potential for omega-3 PUFAs and SPMs in treatment of coronavirus disease 2019. Summary: Evidence for benefits of omega-3 PUFAs in the ICU setting has strengthened through new trials and meta-analyses. Nevertheless, better quality trials are still needed. SPMs may explain many of the benefits of omega-3 PUFAs.

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Crossref · 10.1097/mco.0000000000000896

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  • Mechanistic understandings of the action of omega-3 FA from fish oil have advanced, and positive effects of fish oil on organ function (kidney, liver, muscle) have been reported.

    “Mechanistic understandings of the action of omega-3 FA from fish oil have advanced [91], and positive effects of fish oil on organ function (kidney, liver, muscle) have been reported [92].”

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Authors
Singer, P., & Calder, P. C.
Affiliations
  • Rabin Medical Center (IL)
  • University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (GB)
Corresponding author
Singer, Pierre
Venue
Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care
Published
2023-03
Volume
26
Issue
2
Pages
129-137
ISSN
  • 1363-1950 (ISSN-L)
  • 1473-6519
OpenAlex
W4323653425
Cited by
19
References
69
Citations by year
2026: 3 · 2025: 4 · 2024: 8 · 2023: 4
FWCI
0.69
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
closed
Locations
  • Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • ePrints Soton (University of Southampton) (acceptedVersion)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Nursing › Nutrition and Dietetics › Fatty Acid Research and Health
  • Health Sciences › Nursing › Nutrition and Dietetics › Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterology
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine › Respiratory Support and Mechanisms
Keywords
omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, specialized pro-resolving mediators, intensive care unit, critical illness, acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, nutritional support, delirium, liver dysfunction, muscle mass loss, COVID-19 pandemic, anti-inflammatory activity, immune function
MeSH terms
COVID-19, Humans, Inflammation, Fatty Acids, Omega-3

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