Clinical Therapeutic Applications of Marine Fish Oil

Dear Colleagues,

The therapeutic potential of marine fish oils has remained a subject of ongoing interest and research since the 1970s, when the Inuit populations of Greenland and Alaska were discovered to have unexpectedly low levels of heart disease and diabetes. Marine fish oils are carriers of essential fatty acids (EFAs), principally the Ω-3 fatty acids (Ω3 FAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). As bioactive substrates, these compounds participate in downstream signaling pathways that are central to normal human physiology. The degree of tissue enrichment of these EFAs is reflected in the HS-Omega-3 Index® (%EPA and DHA in erythrocytes). A target range of ≥8% substantially reduces all-cause mortality, constituting a risk factor equivalent to smoking, as corroborated up by large-scale epidemiological studies supported by meta-analyses. Beyond EPA and DHA, marine fish oils may offer important vitamins, trace minerals, and antioxidants clearly beneficial to metabolic health. Studies have also been conducted on the benefits of sustainable, alternative marine oils derived from the enzymatic hydrolysis of fish frames, skins, and heads by enzymes, which may possess unique health benefits.

Presently, there is a general consensus that marine fish oils are broadly beneficial to health, aiding in both preventing disease and in resolving disease processes. Indeed, the health benefits of 3 FAs have been consistently demonstrated in a large body of preclinical research. The beneficial effects of marine fish oils may be mediated by their influence on metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory signaling, cardiovascular function, and other pathways. For marine fish oils to be fully realized as therapeutic agents, further research is necessary, employing appropriate models to elucidate the complex mechanisms through which such health effects are mediated. Clinical intervention trials should address common methodological issues that contribute to the ambiguous conclusions about their efficacy.

This Special Issue aims to highlight the therapeutic potential of marine fish oils. Original articles, reviews, and perspectives on this subject are welcome.  

Dr. Erland Hermansen
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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• fish oil
• DHA/EPA
• vitamin
• enzyme
• oxidative stress
• inflammatory signaling
• therapeutic potential