Dietary omega-3 fatty acid intake impacts peripheral blood DNA methylation -anti-inflammatory effects and individual variability in a pilot study

Alpha-linolenic acid-mediated epigenetic reprogramming of cervical cancer cell lines

Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer globally and the second most prevalent cancer among women in India, is primarily caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The association of diet with cancer etiology and prevention has been well established and nutrition has been shown to regulate cancer through modulation of epigenetic markers. Dietary fatty acids, especially omega-3, reduce the risk of cancer by preventing or reversing the progression through a variety of cellular targets, including epigenetic regulation. In this work, we have evaluated the potential of ALA (α linolenic acid), an ω-3 fatty acid, to regulate cervical cancer through epigenetic mechanisms. The effect of ALA was evaluated on the regulation of histone deacetylases1, DNA methyltransferases 1, and 3b, and global DNA methylation by ELISA. RT-PCR was utilized to assess the expression of tumor regulatory genes (hTERT, DAPK, RARβ, and CDH1) and their promoter methylation in HeLa (HPV18-positive), SiHa (HPV16-positive) and C33a (HPV-negative) cervical cancer cell lines. ALA increased DNA demethylase, HMTs, and HATs while decreasing global DNA methylation, DNMT, HDMs, and HDACs mRNA expression/activity in all cervical cancer cell lines. ALA downregulated hTERT oncogene while upregulating the mRNA expression of TSGs (Tumor Suppressor Genes) CDH1, RARβ, and DAPK in all the cell lines. ALA reduced methylation in the 5' CpG island of CDH1, RARβ, and DAPK1 promoters and reduced global DNA methylation in cervical cancer cell lines. These results suggest that ALA regulates the growth of cervical cancer cells by targeting epigenetic markers, shedding light on its potential therapeutic role in cervical cancer management.

Elucidating the role of fatty acid reprogramming in ovarian cancer: insights cross-talk between blood, subcutaneous fat, and ovarian cancer tissues

Introduction

Aberrant fatty acid (FA) metabolism is increasingly recognized as a significant factor in ovarian cancer (OC) progression, although the comprehensive metabolic alterations across different body tissues remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, sixteen OC patients and twenty-nine non-cancer (NC) patients were recruited for metabolic profiling using a global and targeted metabolomic strategy based on a gas chromatography-hydrogen flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The patient survival was followed up to 3 years, and PFS was calculated.

Results

Our findings revealed distinct metabolite profiles that differentiate OC from NC groups across all sample types. We found seven, nine, and thirteen significant metabolites in subcutaneous fat, plasma, and ovarian tissue respectively. In particular, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) levels were notably elevated in all sample types of OC patients. Furthermore, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis highlight that three plasma FA showed the best specificity and sensitivity in differentiating the OC group from the NC group (Area Under The Curve, AUC > 0.89), including caprylic acid, myristoleic acid, and tetracosaenoic acid. Most of the significant FA in subcutaneous fat and ovarian tissue showed a high risk of OC. However, caprylic acid and tetracosanoic acid were identified as protective factors in the plasma sample. We also found that high levels of linoelaidic acid in subcutaneous fat and palmitelaidic acid in ovarian tissue were associated with poor prognosis. Pathway analysis indicated upregulation of fatty acid synthesis, inflammatory signaling, and ferroptosis pathways in OC patients.

Discussion

This study reveals a coordinated reprogramming of FA metabolism across multiple biospecimens in OC patients. Our results suggest that specific fatty acids may contribute to OC progression through dysregulation of fatty acid synthesis, inflammatory signaling, and ferroptosis. These findings offer mechanistic insights into OC progression and highlighting potential biomarkers and targeted therapeutic interventions.

Randomized dose-response trial of n-3 fatty acids in hormone receptor negative breast cancer survivors - impact on breast adipose oxylipin and DNA methylation patterns

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence suggests the unique susceptibility of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor negative [ERPR(-)] breast cancer to dietary fat amount and type. Dietary n-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), may modulate breast adipose fatty acids and downstream metabolites to counteract procarcinogenic signaling in the mammary microenvironment.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine effects of ∼1 to 5 g/d EPA+DHA over 12 mo on breast adipose fatty acid and oxylipin profiles in survivors of ERPR(-) breast cancer, a high-risk molecular subtype.

METHODS

We conducted a proof-of-concept 12-mo randomized double-blind trial comparing ∼5 g/d and ∼1 g/d EPA+DHA supplementation in females within 5 y of completing standard therapy for ERPR(-) breast cancer Stages 0 to III. Blood and breast adipose tissue specimens were collected every 3 mo for fatty acid, oxylipin, and DNA methylation (DNAm) analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 51 participants completed the 12-mo intervention. Study treatments were generally well tolerated. Although both doses increased n-3 PUFAs from baseline in breast adipose, erythrocytes, and plasma, the 5 g/d supplement was more potent with differences of 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56, 0.96), 6.25 (95% CI: 5.02, 7.48), and 5.89 (95% CI: 4.53, 7.25), respectively. The 5 g/d dose also reduced plasma triglycerides from baseline, with changes of 27.38 (95% CI: 10.99, 43.78) and 24.58 (95% CI: 9.05, 40.10) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Breast adipose oxylipins showed dose-dependent increases in DHA and EPA metabolites. Distinct DNAm patterns in adipose tissue after 12 mo suggest potential downregulation of aberrant lipid metabolism pathways at the 5 g/d dose.

CONCLUSIONS

Over 1 y, EPA+DHA dose-dependently increased breast adipose concentrations of these fatty acids and their derivative oxylipin metabolites and produced differential DNAm profiles involved in metabolism-related pathways critical to ERPR(-) breast cancer development. This distinct metabolic and epigenetic modulation of the breast microenvironment is achievable with high-dose n-3 PUFA supplementation. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02295059.

Mediterranean diet and diabetic microvascular complications: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Diabetic microvascular complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic nephropathy (DN), and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), contribute significantly to morbidity and healthcare burdens among individuals with diabetes. The Mediterranean diet (MD) has been associated with improved metabolic health, but its role in mitigating microvascular complications remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of MD adherence on the risk and progression of these complications.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus was conducted through February 12, 2025 to identify studies evaluating MD adherence and diabetic microvascular complications. Meta-analysis was performed where possible, with effect sizes reported as odds ratios (ORs) or hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Fourteen studies, encompassing 138 to 71,392 participants, were included. Meta-analysis indicated a significant reduction in DR risk among individuals adhering to the MD (HR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.49-0.97, p = 0.03; OR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.12-0.82, p = 0.02). A lower likelihood of DN development was observed (HR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.73-0.99, p = 0.04; OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.25-0.96, p = 0.04). However, results for diabetic neuropathy were inconclusive due to study heterogeneity. Sensitivity analyses revealed notable heterogeneity and publication bias was detected in some analyses.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy, supporting its potential as a dietary intervention for diabetes management. However, the evidence for neuropathy remains inconclusive. Future well-controlled randomized trials are needed to strengthen causal inferences and refine clinical recommendations for MD-based interventions in diabetic microvascular complications.

Individual and additive effects of vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise on DNA methylation clocks of biological aging in older adults from the DO-HEALTH trial

While observational studies and small pilot trials suggest that vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise may slow biological aging, larger clinical trials testing these treatments individually or in combination are lacking. Here, we report the results of a post hoc analysis among 777 participants of the DO-HEALTH trial on the effect of vitamin D (2,000 IU per day) and/or omega-3 (1 g per day) and/or a home exercise program on four next-generation DNA methylation (DNAm) measures of biological aging (PhenoAge, GrimAge, GrimAge2 and DunedinPACE) over 3 years. Omega-3 alone slowed the DNAm clocks PhenoAge, GrimAge2 and DunedinPACE, and all three treatments had additive benefits on PhenoAge. Overall, from baseline to year 3, standardized effects ranged from 0.16 to 0.32 units (2.9-3.8 months). In summary, our trial indicates a small protective effect of omega-3 treatment on slowing biological aging over 3 years across several clocks, with an additive protective effect of omega-3, vitamin D and exercise based on PhenoAge.

The epigenetic impact of fatty acids as DNA methylation modulators

DNA methylation is a key epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression. Fatty acids, the building blocks of many essential lipids, play a crucial role in various biological events. Aberrant acetylation and methylation profiles are linked to a number of non-communicable diseases. Various fatty acids have been identified as potential 'epi-drugs' because of their ability to correct aberrant acetylation and methylation profiles in a number of non-communicable diseases, enhancing the value of their biochemical properties. This review summarizes the effects of selected saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and fatty-acid-rich food items on disease-associated DNA methylation profiles, aiming to justify the classification of fatty acids as DNA methylation modulators.

Randomized dose-response trial of n-3 fatty acids in hormone receptor negative breast cancer survivors- impact on breast adipose oxylipin and DNA methylation patterns

Background

Increasing evidence suggests the unique susceptibility of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor negative (ERPR-) breast cancer to dietary fat amount and type. Dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), may modulate breast adipose fatty acid profiles and downstream bioactive metabolites to counteract pro-inflammatory, pro-carcinogenic signaling in the mammary microenvironment.

Objective

To determine effects of ~1 to 5 g/d EPA+DHA over 12 months on breast adipose fatty acid and oxylipin profiles in women with ERPR(-) breast cancer, a high-risk molecular subtype.

Methods

We conducted a 12-month randomized controlled, double-blind clinical trial of ~5g/d vs ~1g/d DHA+EPA supplementation in women within 5 years of completing standard therapy for ERPR(-) breast cancer Stages 0-III. Blood and breast adipose tissue specimens were collected every 3 months for biomarker analyses including fatty acids by gas chromatography, oxylipins by LC-MS/MS, and DNA methylation by reduced-representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS).

Results

A total of 51 participants completed the 12-month intervention. Study treatments were generally well-tolerated. While both doses increased n-3 PUFAs from baseline in breast adipose, erythrocytes, and plasma, the 5g/d supplement was more potent (n =51, p <0.001). The 5g/d dose also reduced plasma triglycerides from baseline (p =0.008). Breast adipose oxylipins at 0, 6, and 12 months showed dose-dependent increases in unesterified and esterified DHA and EPA metabolites (n =28). Distinct DNA methylation patterns in adipose tissue after 12 months were identified, with effects unique to the 5g/d dose group (n =17).

Conclusions

Over the course of 1 year, EPA+DHA dose-dependently increased concentrations of these fatty acids and their derivative oxylipin metabolites, producing differential DNA methylation profiles of gene promoters involved in metabolism-related pathways critical to ERPR(-) breast cancer development and progression. These data provide evidence of both metabolic and epigenetic effects of n-3 PUFAs in breast adipose tissue, elucidating novel mechanisms of action for high-dose EPA+DHA-mediated prevention of ERPR(-) breast cancer.

Examining nutrition strategies to influence DNA methylation and epigenetic clocks: a systematic review of clinical trials

Nutrition has powerful impacts on our health and longevity. One of the mechanisms by which nutrition might influence our health is by inducing epigenetic modifications, modulating the molecular mechanisms that regulate aging. Observational studies have provided evidence of a relationship between nutrition and differences in DNA methylation. However, these studies are limited in that they might not provide an accurate control of the interactions between different nutrients, or between nutrition and other lifestyle behaviors. Here we systematically reviewed clinical studies examining the impact of nutrition strategies on DNA methylation. We examined clinical studies in community-dwelling adults testing the effects of nutrition interventions on i) global DNA methylation and its proxies, and ii) epigenetic clocks. We included 21 intervention studies that focused on the effects of healthy nutrition patterns, specific foods or nutrients, as well as the effect of multivitamin or multimineral supplements. In four studies on the methylation effects of healthy dietary patterns, as defined by being rich in vegetables, fruits, whole-grains, and nuts and reduced in the intake of added sugars, saturated fat, and alcohol, two of them suggested that a healthy diet, is associated with lower epigenetic age acceleration, one of them reported increases in global DNA methylation, while another one found no diet effects. Studies examining epigenetic effects of specific foods, nutrients, or mixtures of nutrients were scarce. For both folic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids, the available independent studies produced conflicting findings. Although more evidence is still needed to draw firm conclusions, results begin to suggest that healthy dietary patterns have positive effects on DNA methylation. Additional evidence from large randomized-controlled clinical trials is needed to support the effects of healthy nutrition on the DNA methylome.

The pathogenesis of food allergy and protection offered by dietary compounds from the perspective of epigenetics

Food allergy is a global food safety concern, with an increasing prevalence in recent decades. However, the immunological and cellular mechanisms involved in allergic reactions remain incompletely understood, which impedes the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies. Current evidence supports those epigenetic modifications regulate the activation of immune cells, and their dysregulation can contribute to the development of food allergies. Patients with food allergy show epigenetic alterations that lead to the onset, duration and recovery of allergic disease. Moreover, many preclinical studies have shown that certain dietary components exert nutriepigenetic effects in changing the course of food allergies. In this review, we provide an up-to-date overview of DNA methylation, noncoding RNA and histone modification, with a focus on their connections to food allergies. Following this, we discuss the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate the activation and differentiation of innate and adapted immune cell in the context of food allergies. Subsequently, this study specifically focuses on the multidimensional epigenetic effects of dietary components in modulating the immune response, which holds promise for preventing food allergies in the future.

Restoration of epigenetic impairment in the skeletal muscle and chronic inflammation resolution as a therapeutic approach in sarcopenia

Sarcopenia is an age-associated loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, accompanied by severe adverse health outcomes, such as falls and fractures, functional decline, high health costs, and mortality. Hence, its prevention and treatment have become increasingly urgent. However, despite the wide prevalence and extensive research on sarcopenia, no FDA-approved disease-modifying drugs exist. This is probably due to a poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying its pathophysiology. Recent evidence demonstrate that sarcopenia development is characterized by two key elements: (i) epigenetic dysregulation of multiple molecular pathways associated with sarcopenia pathogenesis, such as protein remodeling, insulin resistance, mitochondria impairments, and (ii) the creation of a systemic, chronic, low-grade inflammation (SCLGI). In this review, we focus on the epigenetic regulators that have been implicated in skeletal muscle deterioration, their individual roles, and possible crosstalk. We also discuss epidrugs, which are the pharmaceuticals with the potential to restore the epigenetic mechanisms deregulated in sarcopenia. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms underlying failed SCLGI resolution in sarcopenia and the potential application of pro-resolving molecules, comprising specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) and their stable mimetics and receptor agonists. These compounds, as well as epidrugs, reveal beneficial effects in preclinical studies related to sarcopenia. Based on these encouraging observations, we propose the combination of epidrugs with SCLI-resolving agents as a new therapeutic approach for sarcopenia that can effectively attenuate of its manifestations.

Targeting Metabolic Diseases: The Role of Nutraceuticals in Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

The escalating prevalence of metabolic and cardiometabolic disorders, often characterized by oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, poses significant health challenges globally. As the traditional therapeutic approaches may sometimes fall short in managing these health conditions, attention is growing toward nutraceuticals worldwide; with compounds being obtained from natural sources with potential therapeutic beneficial effects being shown to potentially support and, in some cases, replace pharmacological treatments, especially for individuals who do not qualify for conventional pharmacological treatments. This review delves into the burgeoning field of nutraceutical-based pharmacological modulation as a promising strategy for attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation in metabolic and cardiometabolic disorders. Drawing from an extensive body of research, the review showcases various nutraceutical agents, such as polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, which exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. All these can be classified as novel nutraceutical-based drugs that are capable of regulating pathways to mitigate oxidative-stress- and inflammation-associated metabolic diseases. By exploring the mechanisms through which nutraceuticals interact with oxidative stress pathways and immune responses, this review highlights their potential to restore redox balance and temper chronic inflammation. Additionally, the challenges and prospects of nutraceutical-based interventions are discussed, encompassing bioavailability enhancement, personalized treatment approaches, and clinical translation. Through a comprehensive analysis of the latest scientific reports, this article underscores the potential of nutraceutical-based pharmacological treatment modulation as a novel avenue to fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the complex landscape of metabolic disorders, particularly accentuating their impact on cardiovascular health.

DHA attenuates cartilage degeneration by mediating apoptosis and autophagy in human chondrocytes and rat models of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that usually occurs in the elderly, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) plays a therapeutic role in cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect and mechanism of DHA on hypertrophic differentiation and senescence of OA chondrocytes to provide a theoretical basis for the effect of OA clinical treatment. A human OA chondrocyte model was established by IL-1β, and a rat model of OA was established by anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) transection and medial meniscectomy. The result showed DHA promoted chondrocyte proliferation and reduced apoptosis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showed that there were more autophagosomes in the cytoplasm under the treatment of DHA. Compared to the OA group, samples from the OA + DHA group showed thickened cartilage, reduced degeneration, and an increased rate of collagen II-positive cells, while the Mankin score was significantly lower. In addition, DHA decreased the expression of phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) and the ratio of light chain 3-I/II (LC3-I/II) and increased the expression of Beclin-1 and Bcl-2 measured by western blot analysis. Therefore, DHA promotes chondrocyte proliferation, reduces apoptosis, and increases autophagy in OA chondrocytes, a process that is accomplished by inhibiting the expression of mTOR, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 signaling pathways, providing new perspectives and bootstrap points for the prevention and treatment of OA.

Contribution of n-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids to the Prevention of Breast Cancer Risk Factors

Nowadays, diet and breast cancer are studied at different levels, particularly in tumor prevention and progression. Thus, the molecular mechanisms leading to better knowledge are deciphered with a higher precision. Among the molecules implicated in a preventive and anti-progressive way, n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFAs) are good candidates. These molecules, like docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acids, are generally found in marine material, such as fat fishes or microalgae. EPA and DHA act as anti-proliferative, anti-invasive, and anti-angiogenic molecules in breast cancer cell lines, as well as in in vivo studies. A better characterization of the cellular and molecular pathways involving the action of these fatty acids is essential to have a realistic image of the therapeutic avenues envisaged behind their use. This need is reinforced by the increase in the number of clinical trials involving more and more n-3 LC-PUFAs, and this, in various pathologies ranging from obesity to a multitude of cancers. The objective of this review is, therefore, to highlight the new elements showing the preventive and beneficial effects of n-3 LC-PUFAs against the development and progression of breast cancer.