A Brief Narrative Review of the Underlying Mechanisms Whereby Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Influence Skeletal Muscle: From Cell Culture to Human Interventions

Abstract

Skeletal muscle is essential for human locomotion as well as maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Age-related reduction in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function (i.e., sarcopenia) is a result of pathophysiological processes that include inflammation, alteration of molecular signaling for muscle protein synthesis and degradation, changes in insulin sensitivity, as well as altered skeletal muscle satellite cell activity. Finding strategies to mitigate skeletal muscle loss with age is deemed paramount as the percentage of the population continues to shift towards having more older adults with sarcopenia. Recent research indicates omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can influence anabolic or catabolic pathways in skeletal muscle. Our brief review will provide a synopsis of some underlying mechanisms that may be attributed to omega-3 fatty acid supplementation’s effects on skeletal muscle. We will approach this review by focusing on cell culture, animal (pre-clinical models), and human studies evaluating omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, with suggestions for future research. In older adults, omega-3 fatty acids may possess some potential to modify pathophysiological pathways associated with sarcopenia; however, it is highly likely that omega-3 fatty acids need to be combined with other anabolic interventions to effectively ameliorate sarcopenia.

Higher ultra processed foods intake is associated with low muscle mass in young to middle-aged adults: a cross-sectional NHANES study

“…For example, an adequate intake of protein, especially leucine-rich protein, can stimulate muscle protein synthesis and serve a preventive or interventional role in individuals facing muscle loss ( 45 ). Moreover, Omega-3-rich foods like fish, nuts, and grains possess anti-inflammatory properties that impede white blood cell migration toward sources of inflammation and hinder cell aggregation, thereby contributing to the preservation of muscle mass ( 46 ). Additionally, dietary fiber has been found to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation.…”

Exercise and nutrition interventions for renal cachexia

“…n-3 PUFA may also have beneficial effects directly on skeletal muscle, and this is being investigated in a range of studies and models, e.g. cell-based, animal and human [ 36 ]. The current theories are that not only would n-3 PUFA supplementation down-regulate inflammatory cytokine production known to stimulate muscle proteolysis and insulin resistance, but n-3 PUFA may be incorporated into skeletal muscle cell membranes and potentially alter muscle protein balance.…”

“…The current theories are that not only would n-3 PUFA supplementation down-regulate inflammatory cytokine production known to stimulate muscle proteolysis and insulin resistance, but n-3 PUFA may be incorporated into skeletal muscle cell membranes and potentially alter muscle protein balance. Activation of mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) muscle protein synthetic pathways, enhancement of insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial function, and dampening of NF-κB signalling are possible effects [ 33 , 36 ]. A systematic review and meta-analysis of human studies was performed by Bird et al in which they analysed 123 human studies (66 studies included in meta-analysis) in healthy and diseased population groups (e.g.…”