Effect of ω-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids-Derived Bioactive Lipids on Metabolic Disorders

Arachidonic acid (ARA) is an important omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and n-3 docosapentaenoic acid omega-3 DPA) are three well-known omega-3 PUFAs. These fatty acids can be metabolized into a number of bioactive lipids. Eicosanoids derived from ARA have drawn great attention because of their important and complex biofunctions. Although EPA, DHA and n-3 DPA have also shown powerful biofunctions, we have fewer studies of metabolites derived from them than those from ARA. Recently, growing research has focused on the bioaction of omega-3 PUFA-derived metabolites, which indicates their great potential for treating metabolic disorders. Most of the functional studies of these bioactive lipids focused on their anti-inflammatory effects. However, several studies elucidated their direct effects on pancreatic cells, hepatocytes, adipocytes, skeletal muscle cells, and endothelial cells. These researches revealed the importance of studying the functions of metabolites derived from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids other than themselves. The current review summarizes research into the effects of omega-3 PUFA-derived oxylipins on metabolic disorders, including diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, adipose tissue dysfunction, and atherosclerosis.

Automated summary

Research has shown that metabolites derived from omega-3 PUFAs have potential for treating metabolic disorders, with a focus on their anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have also revealed direct effects on various cell types, highlighting the importance of studying the functions of these metabolites.